Full text of "Poems"
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POEMS
GEORGE P. MORRIS.
ILLUSTRATIONS BY WEIR AND DARLEY.
ENGRAVED BY AMERICAN ARTISTS.
jFourt!) liDition,
NEW YORK:
CHARLES SCRIBNER, 145 NASSAU ST.
MDCCCLIV.
Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1853,
By CHARLES SCKIBNEK,
In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, in and for the Southern
District of Now York.
STEREOTYPED BY C. C. SAVAfiF. R. CRAIGHEAD, PRINTER AND STEREOTYPER,
13 Ciiunlwra Street, N. Y. 53 Vesey Street, N. Y.
PREFACE,
AT the time the following poems were written, there
was no intention of ever collecting them in the present
form. Although, as anonymous productions, they have
attracted much attention, the author deemed them of
too fleeting a nature to be published with his name.
Various reasons, however, which it is unnecessary to
mention, have overruled his original objections ; and
this work is submitted to the reader in the hope that,
as the fragments have been well received, they will
not be entirely unacceptable now that they are gathered
into a volume.
NEW-YORK, 1853.
TO
GEORGE A BERNE THY,
E X - G V E K N O II OF K E G O X,
ARE AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED,
BV HIS I'HIKM),
THE AUTHOR.
CONTENTS,
THE DESERTED BRIDE PAGE 17
THE MAIN-TRUCK ; OR, A LEAP FOR LIFE 21
POETRY 24
THE CROTON ODE 25
FRAGMENT OF AN INDIAN POEM 29
LAND-HO! , 33
WOODMAN, SPARE THAT TREE 35
THE COTTAGER'S WELCOME 37
LAND OF WASHINGTON 39
THE FLAG OF OUR UNION 41
LINES AFTER THE MANNER OF THE OLDEN TIME 43
THE DREAM OF LOVE 46
I'M WITH YOU ONCE AGAIN 49
OH, WOULD THAT SHE WERE HERE 51
THE SWORD AND THE STAFF 53
THE CHIEFTAIN'S DAUGHTER 55
THY WILL BE DONE 57
LIFE IN THE WEST 59
SONG OF MARION'S MEN 61
J ANET McR E A 63
L1SETTE. . .. 65
CONTENTS.
MY MOTHER'S BIBLE PAGE 07
THE DOG-STAR RAGES 69
LEGEND OF THE MOHAWK 71
THE BALL-ROOM BELLE 75
WE WERE BOYS TOGETHER 77
OH, BOATMAN, HASTE 79
FUNERAL HYMN 81
O'ER THE MOUNTAINS 83
WOMAN 85
ROSABEL 87
THY TYRANT SWAY 90
A HERO OF THE REVOLUTION 91
RHYME AND REASON : AN APOLOGUE 93
STARLIGHT RECOLLECTIONS 95
WEARIES MY LOVE OF MY LETTERS? 97
FARE THEE WELL, LOVE 99
THOU HAST WOVEN THE SPELL 100
BESSIE BELL 101
THE DAY IS NOW DAWNING, LOVE 103
WHEN OTHER FRIENDS ARE ROUND THEE 105
SILENT GRIEF 106
LOVE THEE, DEAREST! 107
A SCENE AT SEA ]08
I LOVE THE NIGHT 109
THE MINIATURE * . 110
THE RETORT > m
LINES ONAPOET 113
THE BACCHANAL ^ 113
TWENTY YEARS AGO ? 11S
NATIONAL ANTHEM _ ]]9
I LOVE THEE STILL m
CONTEXTS.
LOOK FROM THY LATTICE, LOVE PAGE 123
SHE LOVED HIM 125
THE SUITORS 127
ST. AGNES' SHRINE 129
WESTERN REFRAIN 131
THE PRAIRIE ON FIRE 183
THE EVERGREEN 136
THE MAY-QUEEN 137
VENETIAN SERENADE 139
THE WHIP-POOR-WILL 141
THE EXILE TO HIS SISTER 146
NEAR THE LAKE WHERE DROOPED THE WILLOW 147
THE PASTOR'S DAUGHTER 149
MARGARETTA 151
THE COLONEL 153
THE SWEEP'S CAROL 155
THE SEASONS OF LOVE 157
MY WOODLAND BRIDE 159
OH, THINK OF ME 160
MY BARK IS OUT UPON THE SEA 1C1
WILL NOBODY MARRY ME? 163
THE STAR OF LOVE 165
WELL-A-DAY 166
NOT MARRIED YET 167
LADY OF ENGLAND 169
OH, THIS LOVE 171
MARY 173
THE BEAM OF DEVOTION 175
THE WELCOME AND FAREWELL 176
TIS NOW THE PROMISED HOUR 177
THE SONGS OF HOME.. . 179
JO CONTENTS.
MASONIC HYMN PAGE 181
THE DISMISSED 18S
LORD OF THE CASTLE 186
THE FALLEN BRAVE 187
SONG OF THE TROUBADOUR 189
CHAMPIONS OF LIBERTY 191
THE HUNTER'S CAROL 194
WASHINGTON'S MONUMENT 195
THE SISTER'S APPEAL 197
SONG OF THE REAPERS 193
WALTER GAY 199
GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE 201
TEMPERANCE SONG 203
BOAT-SONG 205
WILLIE 207
THE ROCK OF THE PILGRIMS 210
YEARS AGO 211
THE SOLDIER'S WELCOME HOME 213
THE ORIGIN OF YANKEE DOODLE 215
LINES ON THE BURIAL OF MRS. MARY L. WARD 219
NEW-YORK IN 1826 221
THE HERO'S LEGACY 223
WHAT CAN IT MEAN? 229
THE STORY OF A SONG 231
WHERE HUDSON'S WAVE 233
AU REVOIR 235
EPIGRAMS 236
EPITAPH 236
ADDRESS FOR THE BENEFIT OF WILLIAM DUNLAP 237
ADDRESS FOR THE BENEFIT OF J. SHERIDAN KNOWLES ... 240
ADDRESS FOR THE BENEFIT OF HENRY PLACIDE . . , . 243
CONTEXTS. 11
THE MAID OF SAXOXY : OR, WHO 'S THE TRAITOR ? . . . PAGE 247
HO ! HAXS ! WHY, HAXS ! 251
REJOICE ! REJOICE ! WE 'RE SAFE AXD SOUND 252
THE LIFE FOR ME IS A SOLDIER'S LIFE 258
CONFUSION 1 AGAIN REJECTED! 262
WHEN I BEHOLD THAT LOWERING BROW 264
'TIS A SOLDIER'S RIGID DUTY 267
THE SPRING-TIME OF LOVE IS BOTH HAPPY AXD GAY 269
FROM MY FATE THERE'S XO RETREATIXG 275
LADS AXD LASSES TRIP AWAY 276
ALL HAIL THE KING! 285
HOME 287
SKY, STREAM, MOORLAND AND MOUNTAIN 297
DARED THESE LIPS MY SAD STORY IMPART 300
FIERY MARS, THY VOTARY HEAR 306
AH 1 LOVE IS NOT A GARDEN-FLOWER 307
THE KING, THE PRINCES OF THE COURT 808
VICTORIA! VICTORIA! 311
THIS GLOOMY CELL IS MY ABODE AT LAST 317
HARK ! T IS THE DEEP-TONED MIDNIGHT BELL 319
ONCE, MILD AND GENTLE WAS MY HEART 823
THE GENTLE BIRD ON YONDER SPRAY 826
THAT LAW'S THE PERFECTION OF REASON 334
WITH MERCY LET JUSTICE 836
WHAT OUTRAGE MORE? AT WHOSE COMMAND 338
THE JAVELIN FROM AN UNSEEN HAND 345
REJOICE ! OUR LOYAL HEARTS WE BRING 346
OUR HEARTS ARE BOUNDING WITH DELIGHT 850
NOTES 353
THE DESERTED BRIDE 853
THE CROTON ODE . . . 353
12 CONTEXTS.
NOTES (CONTINUED) PAGE 353
WOODMAN, SPARE THAT TREE , 353
THE CHIEFTAIN'S DAUGHTER 355
SONG OF MARION'S MEN 357
JANET McREA 357
THE DOG-STAR RAGES 360
THE PRAIRIE ON FIRE 361
THE SWEEP'S CAROL 361
THE FALLEN BRAVE OF MEXICO 361
THE CHAMPIONS OF LIBERTY 362
THE SOLDIER'S WELCOME HOME 362
THE ORIGIN OF YANKEE DOODLE 362
NEW-YORK IN 1826 S62
THE MAID OF SAXONY ,. 865
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS,
DESIGNED BY WEIR.
WOODMAN, SPARE THAT TREE!
ENGRAVED BY ALFRED JONES. (Te face Title.,
"Woodman, spare that tree !
Touch not a single bough 3
In youth it sheltered me,
And I'll protect it now,
T was my forefather's hand
That placed it near his cot;
There, woodman, let it stand,
Thy axe shall harm it not !"
Woodman, spare that Tree, p. 35.
LISETTE.
ENGRAVED BY CHARLES HURT. (Titlcpage.)
"On bridal day, her lips did say,
'Love, honour and obey!'"
Lisette, p. 66.
PORTRAIT OF THE AUTHOR.
ENGRAVED BY CHARLES BURT, FROM A PAINTING BY HENRY INMAN.
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
THE CROTON ODE.
ENGRAVED BY ALFRED JONES.
"Safety dwells in her dominions,
Health and Beauty with her move,
And entwine their circling pinions
In a sisterhood of love."
The Croton Ode, p. 27
THE CHIEFTAIN'S DAUGHTER.
ENGRAVED BY ALFRED JONES.
"Tis ever thus, when, in life's storm,
Hope's star to man grows dim,
An angel kneels in woman's form,
And breathes a prayer for him."
The Chieftain's Daughter, p. 66.
THE DOG-STAR RAGES.
ENGRAVED BY ALFRED JONES.
" Had I a yacht, like Miller,
That skimmer of the seas
A wheel rigged on a tiller,
And a fresh gunwale breeze,
A crew of friends well chosen,
And all a-taunto, I
Would sail for regions frozen
I'd rather freeze than fry !"
The Dog-Star Rages, p. 72.
WHEN OTHER FRIENDS.
ENGRAVED BY ALFRED JONES.
"When other friends are round thee,
And other hearts are thine
When other Friends, p. 105.
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. 15
THE PRAIRIE ON FIRE.
ENGRAVED BY CHARLES BURT.
"Thick darkness shrouded earth and sky
"When on the whispering winds there came
The Teton's shrill and thrilling cry,
And heaven was pierced with shafts of flame 1
The sun seemed rising through the haze,
But with an aspect dread and dire:
The very air appeared to blaze!
O God ! the Prairie was on fire!"
The Prairie on Fire, p. 183.
'TIS NOW THE PROMISED HOUR.
ENGRAVED BY ALFRED JONES.
"Then, lady, wake in beauty rise 1
'Tis now the promised hour,
Wlum torches kindle in the skies
To light thee to thy bower."
'Tis now the Promised Hour, p. 177.
ROCK OF THE PILGRIMS.
ENGRAVED BY ALFRED JONES.
"The Pilgrims of old an example have given
Of mild resignation, devotion and love,
Which beams like the star in the blue vault of heaven,
A beacon-light swung in their mansion above."
The Rock of the Pilgrims, p. 210.
* The Mayflower having arrived in the harbour from Cnpe Cod, Mary Chilton entered
the first landing-bout, and looking forward, exclaimed. ' I will be the first to step on that
rock.' Accordingly, when the boat approached, Mary Chilton was permitted to be the
first from that boat who appeared on the rock, and thus her claim was established."
Thacher's " History of Plymouth," p. 30.
16 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.
THE MAID OF SAXONY.
DESIGNS BY DARLEY.
FREDERICK THE GREAT.
ENGRAVED BY CHARLES BURT.
"What have we here ?"
Act I. Scene IV., p. 281.
SOPHIA MANSFIELD.
ENGRAVED BY CHARLES BURT.
Act II. Scene /, p. 286.
WEDGEWOOD.
ENGRAVED BY CHARLES BURT.
"Silence in the court!"
Act III Scene IV., p. 337.
POEMS.
THE DESEETED BRIDE.
SUGGESTED BY A SCENE IX THE PLAY OF TILE HUNCHBACK.
IXSCEIDED TO JAMES SHERIDAN KNOWLES.
I.
" LOVE me ! No. He never loved me !"
Else he'd sooner die than stain
One so fond as he has proved me
"With the hollow world's disdain.
False one, go my doom is spoken,
And the spell that bound me broken !
n.
Wed him ! Never. He has lost me !
Tears ! "Well, let them flow ! His bride ?
No. The struggle life may cost me !
But he '11 find that I have pride !
Love is not an idle flower,
Blooms and dies the self-same hour.
18 THE DESERTED BRIDE.
III.
Title, land and broad dominion,
With himself to me he gave ;
Stooped to earth his spirit's pinion,
And became my willing slave !
Knelt and prayed until he won me
Looks he coldly now upon me?
IV.
Ingrate ! Never sure was maiden
Deeply wronged as I. With grief
My true breast is overladen
Tears afford me no relief
Every nerve is strained and aching,
And my very heart is breaking !
v.
Love I him? Tims scorned and slighted -
Thrown, like worthless weed, apart
Hopes and feelings seared and blighted
Love him? Ye& r with all my heart!
With a passion superhuman
Constancy, " thy name is woman."
VI.
Love, nor time, nor mood, can fashion-
Love? Idolatry 's the word
THE DESERTED BRIDE. 19
To speak the broadest, deepest passion,
Ever woman's heart hath stirred !
Vain to still the mind's desires,
Which consume like hidden fires !
VII.
Wrecked and wretched, lost and lonely,
Crushed by grief's oppressive weight,
With a prayer for Clifford only,
I resign me to my fate.
Chains that bind the soul I've proven
Strong as they were iron-woven.
VIII.
Deep the wo that fast is sending
From my cheek its healthful bloom ;
Sad my thoughts as willows bending
O'er the borders of the tomb !
Without Clifford, not a blessing
In the world is \vorth possessing.
IX.
Wealth! A straw within the balance,
Opposed to love, 't will strike the beam :
Kindred friendship beauty talents ?
All to love as nothing seem ;
Weigh love against all else together,
As solid gold against a feather.
20 THE DESERTED B HIDE.
X.
Hope is flown ! Away disguises
Naught but death relief can give
For the love be little prizes-
Cannot cease, and Julia live !
Soon my thread of life will sever
Clifford, fare thee well for everl
THE MAI X-T II U C K.
21
THE MAIN-TRUCK; OR, A LEAP FOP, LIFE.*
A NAUTICAL BALLAD.
OLD Ironsides at anchor lay,
In the harbour of Mahon ;
A dead calm rested on the bay
The waves to sleep had gone ;
When little Jack, the captain's son,
With gallant hardihood,
Climbed shroud and spar and then upon
The main-truck rose and stood !
ii.
A shudder ran through every vein
All eyes were turned on high !
There stood the boy, with dizzy brain,
Between the sea and sky !
* Founded upon a well-known tale from the pen of the late WILLIAM
LEGGETT, Esq.
22 THE MAIN-TRUCK.
No hold luid he above below,
Alone lie stood in air !
At that fur height none dared to go-
No aid could reach him there.
m.
We gazed but not a man could speak !
"With horror all aghast
In groups, with pallid brow and cheek,
We watched the quivering mast.
The atmosphere grew thick and hot,
And of a lurid hue,
As, riveted unto the spot,
Stood officers and crew.
rv.
The father came on deck ! He gasped,
" O God, Thy will be done !"
Then suddenly a rifle grasped,
And aimed it at his son !
" Jump, far out, boy ! into the wave !
Jump, or I fire !" he said :
" That only chance your life can save !
Jump jump, boy!" He obeyed.
THE MAIN-TRUCK. 23
V.
He sunk lie rose he lived lie moved
He for the ship struck out !
On board we hailed the lad beloved
"With many a manly shout.
His father drew, in silent joy,
Those wet arms round his neck,
Then folded to his heart the boy,
And fainted on the deck !
21 P E T R Y.
POETRY.
I.
To me the world's an open book
Of sweet and pleasant poetry ;
I read it in the running brook
That sings its way toward the sea.
It whispers in the leaves of trees,
The swelling grain, the waving grass,
And in the cool, fresh evening breeze
7 O
That crisps the wavelets as they pass.
ii.
The flowers below, the stars above,
In all their bloom and brightness given,
Are, like the attributes of love,
The poetry of earth and heaven.
Thus Nature's volume, read aright,
Attunes the soul to minstrelsy,
Tinging life's clouds with rosy light,
And all the world with poetry.
THE C R T X D E. 23
THE CEOTOX ODE.
WRITTEN AT THE REQUEST OF THE CORPORATION OF THE
CITY OF NEW YORK.
GUSHING from this living fountain,
Music pours a falling strain,
As the goddess of the mountain
Comes with all her sparkling train.
From her grotto-springs advancing,
Glittering in her feathery spray,
Woodland fays beside her dancing,
She pursues her winding way.
ir.
Gently o'er the rippling water,
In her coral-shallop bright,.
Glides the rock-king's dove-eyed daughter,
Decked in robes of virgin white.
26 T II E C R O T N D E.
Nymphs and naiads, sweetly smiling,
Urge her bark with pearly hand,
Merrily the sylph beguiling
From the nooks of fairy-land.
in.
Swimming on the snow-curled billow,
See the river-spirits fair
Lay their cheeks, as on a pillow,
With the foam-beads in their hair
Thus attended, hither wending,
Floats the lovely oread now,
Eden's arch of promise bending
Over her translucent brow.
rv.
Hail the wanderer from a far land !
Bind her flowing tresses up !
Crown her with a fadeless garland,
And with crystal brim the cup ;
From her haunts of deep seclusion,
Let Intemperance greet her too,
And the heat of his delusion
Sprinkle with this mountain-dew.
mjjmjjjjjt
THE C II T X O D E. 27
V.
"Water leaps as if delighted,
While her conquered foes retire !
Pale Contagion flies affrighted
"With the baffled demon Fire !
Safety dwells in her dominions,
Health and Beauty with her move,
And entwine their circling pinions
In a sisterhood of love.
"Water shouts a glad hosanna !
Bubbles up the earth to bless !
Cheers it like the precious manna
In the barren wilderness.
Here we wondering gaze, assembled
Like the grateful Hebrew band,
"When the hidden, fountain trembled.
And obeyed the prophet's wand.
TIT.
Round the aqueducts of story,
As the mists of Lethe throng,
Croton's waves in all their glory
Troop in melody along.
28 T II E C R T X O D E.
Ever sparkling, bright, and single,
"Will this rock-ribbed stream appear,
"When posterity shall mingle
Like the gathered waters here.
FRAG M EXT OF AX I X D I A X P E II. 29
FRAGMENT OF AN INDIAN POEM,
*******
THEY come! Be firm in silence rally!
The long-knives our retreat have found !
Hark ! their tramp is in the valley,
And they hem the forest round !
The burdened boughs with pale scouts quiver,
The echoing hills tumultuous ring,
While across the eddying river
Their barks, like foaming war-steeds, spring !
The bloodhounds darken land and water ;
They come like buffaloes for slaughter!
n.
See their glittering files advancing,
See upon the free winds dancing
Pennon proud and gaudy plume:
30 FRAGMENT OF AN INDIAN P E M.
The strangers come in evil hour,
In pomp, and panoply, and power,
To plant a weed where bloomed a flower,
Where sunshine broke to spread a shower ;
And, while upon our tribes they lower,
Think they our manly hearts will cower
To meet a warrior's doom ?
in.
Eight they forget while strength they feel ;
Our blood they drain, our land they steal ;
And should the vanquished Indian kneel,
They spurn him from their sight !
Be set for ever in disgrace
The glory of the red-man's race,
If from the foe we turn our face,
Or safety seek in flight !
IV.
They come! Up, and upon them, braves!
Fight for your altars and your graves !
Drive back the stern, invading slaves,
In fight till now victorious !
Like lightning from storm-clouds on high,
The hnrtling, death-winged arrows fly,
And wind-rows of pale warriors die !
FRAGMENT OF A X I X D I A X TOE M. 31
Oil ! never has the sun's bright eye
Looked from his hill-tops in the sky
Upon a field so glorious !
********
v.
They're gone again the red-men rally;
With dance and song the \voods resound :
The hatchet's buried in the valley;
No foe profanes our hunting-ground !
The green leaves on the blithe boughs quiver,
The verdant hills with song-birds ring,
While our bark-canoes the river
Skim like swallows on the wing.
Mirth pervades the land and water,
Free from famine, sword and slaughter!
********
VI.
Let us, by this gentle river,
Blunt the axe and break the quiver,
While, as leaves upon the spray,
Peaceful flow our cares away !
* * ******
TIL
Yet, alas ! the hour is brief
Left for either joy or grief!
32 FRAGMENT OF AX INDIAN POEM.
All on earth that we inherit
From the hands of the Great Spirit
Wigwam, hill, plain, lake and field
To the white-man must we yield ;
For, like sun-down on the waves,
We are sinking to our graves !
VIII.
From this wilderness of wo
Like a caravan we go,
Leaving all our groves and streams
For the far-off land of dreams.
There are prairies waving high,
Boundless as the sheeted sky,
Where our fathers' spirits roam,
And the red-man has a home.
IX.
Let tradition tell our story
As we fade in cloudless glory,
As we seek the land of rest
Beyond the borders of the west,
No eye but ours may look upon
WE AUK THE CIIir.DREX OF THE SUN !
* * * * * * -: *
L A X D - II ! 33
LAND-IIO
Up, up with the signal! The land is in sight!
We'll be happy, if never again, boys, to-night!
The cold cheerless ocean in safety we've passed,
And the warm genial earth glads our vision at last.
In the land of the stranger true hearts we shall find,
To soothe us in absence of those left behind.
Land ! land-ho ! All hearts glow with joy at the sight !
We'll be happy, if never again, boys, to-night!
n.
The signal is waving ! Till morn we'll remain,
Then part in the hope to meet one day again
Round the hearth-stone of home in the land of our birth,
The holiest spot on the face of the earth !
Dear country ! our thoughts are as constant to thee
As the steel to the star, or the stream to the sea.
Ho ! land-ho ! We near it ! We bound at the sight I
Then be happy, if never again, boys, to-night !
34 LAND-IIO!
III.
The signal is answered! The foam-sparkles rise
Like tears from the fountain of joy to the eyes !
May rain-drops that fall from the storm-clouds of care,
Melt away in the sun-beaming smiles of the fair !
One health, as chime gayly the nautical bells :
To woman God bless her! wherever she dwells!
THE PILOT'S ON BOARD! and, thank Heaven, all's right!
So be happy, if never again, boys, to-night !
\V O D M A X, SPARE THAT TREE! 35
WOODMAN, SPARE THAT TREE
i.
WOODMAX, spare that tree !
Touch not a single bough !
In youth it sheltered me,
And I '11 protect it now.
Twas my forefather's hand
That placed it near his cot ;
There, woodman, let it stand,
Thy axe shall harm it not I
n.
That old familiar tree,
Whose glory and renown
Are spread o'er land and sea
And wouldst thou hew it down ?
Woodman, forbear thy stroke !
Cut not its earth-bound ties ;
Oh, spare that aged oak,
Now towering to the skies 1
36 WOODMAN, SPARE THAT TREE!
III.
"When but an idle boy,
I sought its grateful shade ;
In all their gushing joy
Here, too, my sisters played.
My mother kissed me here ;
My father pressed my hand
Forgive this foolish tear,
But let that old oak stand !
IV.
My heart-strings round thee cling,
Close as thy bark, old friend !
Here shall the wild-bird sino-,
O'
And still thy branches bend.
Old tree ! the storm still brave !
And, woodman, leave the spot ;
While I 've a hand to save,
Thy axe shall harm it not !
THE COTTAGER'S WELCOME. 37
THE COTTAGEE'S WELCOME.
i.
HARD by I've a cottage that stands near the wood-
A stream glides in peace at the door
"Where all who will tarry, 'tis well understood,
Receive hospitality's store.
To cheer that the brook and the thicket afford,
The stranger we ever invite :
You 're welcome to freely partake at the board,
And afterward rest for the night.
ii.
The birds in the morning will sing from the trees,
And herald the young god of day ;
Then, with him uprising, depart if you please
We'll set you refreshed on the way :
Your coin for our service we sternly reject;
No traffic for gain we pursue,
And all the reward that we wish or expect,
We take in the good that we do.
38 THE COTTAGER'S WELCOME.
III.
Mankind are all pilgrims on life's weary road,
And many would wander astray
In seeking Eternity's silent abode,
Did Mercy not point out the way !
If all would their duty discharge as they should
To those who are friendless and poor,
The world would resemble my cot near the wood,
And life the sweet stream at my door.
THE L A N D OF W A S II I N G T X.
THE LAND OF WASHINGTON.
I GLORY in the sages
Who, in the days of yore,
In combat met the foemen,
And drove them from our shore ;
Who flung our banner's starry field
In triumph to the breeze,
And spread broad maps of cities where
Once waved the forest-trees.
Hurrah !
n.
I glory in the spirit
Which goaded them to rise
And found a mighty nation
Beneath the western skies.
4:0 THE LAND OF W A S II I N G T O IS T .
No clime so bright and beautiful
As that where sets the sun ;
No land so fertile, fair, and free,
As that of Washington.
Hurrah !
THE FLAG OF OUR U N I O X. 41
THE FLAG OF OUR UNION.
"A SONG for our banner?" The watchword recall
Which gave the Republic her station :
"United we stand divided we fall!"
It made and preserves us a nation !
The union of lakes the union of lands
The union of states none can sever
The union of hearts the union of hands
And the Flag of the Union for ever
And ever !
The Flag of our Union for ever !
ii.
What God in His mercy and wisdom designed,
And armed with His weapons of thunder,
Not all the earth's despots and factions combined
Have the power to conquer or sunder !
42 THE FLAG OF OUR UNION.
The union of lakes the union of lands
The union of states none can sever
The union of hearts the union of hands
And the Flag of the Union for ever
And ever!
The Flasc of our Union for ever t
LIXES. 43
LINES
AFTEE THE MANNER OF THE OLDEN TIME.
I.
O LOVE ! the mischief thou hast done !
Thou god of pleasure and of pain !
None can escape thee yes, there's one
All others find the effort vain :
Thou cause of all my smiles and tears !
Thou blight and bloom of all my years !
n.
Love bathes him in the morning dews
Reclines him in the lily-bells,
Reposes in the rainbow hues,
And sparkles in the crystal wells,
Or hies him to the coral-caves,
Where sea-nymphs sport beneath the waves.
in.
Love vibrates in the wind-harp's tune
With fays and oreads lingers he
44 LINES.
Gleams in th' ring of the watery moon,
Or treads the pebbles of the sea.
Love rules "the court, the camp, the grove"-
Oh, everywhere we meet thee, Love !
IV.
And everywhere he welcome finds,
From cottage-door to palace-porch
Love enters free as spicy winds,
"With purple wings and lighted torch,
With tripping feet and silvery tongue,
And bow and darts behind him slung.
v.
He tinkles in the shepherd's bell
The village maiden leans to hear
By lattice high he weaves his spell,
For lady fair and cavalier :
Like sun-bursts on the mountain snow,
Love's genial warmth melts high and low.
VI.
Then why, ye nymphs Arcadian, why
Since Love is general as the air
Why does he not to Lelia fly,
And soften that obdurate fair?
LINE S. 45
Scorn nerves her proud, disdainful heart !
She scoffs at Love and all his art !
vrr.
Oh, boy-god, Love! An archer thou?
Thy utmost skill I fain would test ;
One arrow aim at Lelia now,
And let thy target be her breast !
Her heart bind in thy captive train,
Or give me back my own again !
40 THE DREAM OF LOVE.
THE DREAM OF LOVE.
i.
I'VE had the heart-ache many times,
At the mere mention of a name
I've never woven in my rhymes,
Though from it inspiration came.
It is in truth a holy thing,
Life-cherished from the world apart
A dove that never tries its wing,
But broods and nestles in the heart.
n.
That name of melody recalls
Her gentle look and winning ways
"Whose portrait hangs on Memory's walls,
In the fond light of other days.
In. the dream-land of Poetry,
Reclining in its leafy bowers,
Her bright eyes in the stars I see,
And her sweet semblance in the flowers.
T II !: D R E A M O F L V E. 47
in.
Her artless dalliance and grace
The joy that lighted up her brow
The sweet expression of her face
Her form it stands before me now!
And I can fancy that I hear
The woodland songs she used to sing,
Which stole to my attending ear,
Like the first harbingers of spring.
IT.
The beauty of the earth was hers,
And hers the purity of heaven ;
AJone, of all her worshippers,
To me her maiden vows were given.
They little know the human heart,
"Who think such love with time expires ;
Once kindled, it will ne'er depart,
But burn through life with all its fires.
V
v.
"We parted doomed no more to meet
The blow fell with a stunning power
And yet my pulse will strangely beat
At the remembrance of that hour !
48 THE D HE AM OF LOVE.
But time and change their healing brought,
And years have passed in seeming glee,
But still alone of her I 've thought
"Who ? s now a memory to me.
VI.
There may be many who will deem
This strain a wayward, youthful folly,
To be derided as a dream
Born of the poet's melancholy.
The wealth of worlds, if it were mine,
With all that follows in its train,
I would with gratitude resign,
To dream that dream of love again !
I ' M W I T II Y U ONCE A G A I !S T . 49
I'M WITH YOU ONCE AGAIN.
i.
I'M with you once again, my friends,
No more my footsteps roam ;
Where it began my journey ends,
Amid the scenes of home.
No other clime has skies so blue,
Or streams so broad and clear,
And where are hearts so warm and true
As those that meet me here ?
n.
Since last, with spirits wild and free,
1 pressed my native strand,
I've wandered many miles at sea,
And many miles on land.
I've seen fair realms of the earth
By rude commotion torn,
Which taught me how to prize the worth
Of that where I was born.
50 I'M W ITII YO U ON CE A G A I X.
III.
In other countries, when I heard
The language of my own,
How fondly each familiar word
Awoke an answering tone !
But when our woodland songs were sung
Upon a foreign mart,
The vows that faltered on the tongue
With rapture thrilled the heart !
IV.
My native land, I turn to you,
With blessing and with prayer,
Where man is brave and woman true,
And free as mountain air.
Long may our flag in triumph wave
Against the world combined,
And friends a welcome foes a grave,
O /
Within our borders find.
Oil, WOULD THAT SHE WERE HER El 51
OH, WOULD THAT SHE WERE HERE!
i.
OH, would that she were here,
These hills and dales among,
Where vocal groves are gayly mocked
By Echo's airy tongue :
Where jocund Nature smiles
In all her boon attire,
And roams the deeply-tangled wilds
Of hawthorn and sweet-brier.
Oh, would that she were
The gentle maid I sing,
Whose voice is cheerful as the songs
Of forest-birds in spring !
n.
Oh, would that she were here,
Where the free waters leap,
Shouting in sportive joyousness
Adown the rocky steep :
52 Oil, WOULD THAT SHE WERE HERE!
Where zephyrs crisp and cool
The fountains as they play,
"With health upon their wings of light,
And gladness in their way.
Oh, would that she were here,
With these balm-breathing trees,
The sylvan daughters of the sun,
The rain-cloud, and the breeze !
in.
Oh, would that she were here,
Where glide the rosy hours,
Murin'ring the drowsy hum of bees,
And fragrant with the flowers :
Where Heaven's redeeming love
Spans earth in Mercy's bow
The promise of the world above
Unto the world below.
Oh, would that she were here,
Amid these shades serene
Oh, for the spell of woman's love,
To consecrate the scene !
THE S W O 11 D A X D T II E STAFF. 53
THE SWORD AXD THE STAFF.
i.
THE sword of the liero !
The staff of the sage !
Whose valour and wisdom
Are stamped on the age !
Time-hallowed mementos
Of those who have riven
The sceptre from tyrants,
" The lightning from heaven 1"
n.
This weapon, O Freedom !
Was drawn by thy son,
And it never was sheathed
Till the battle was won !
No stain of dishonour
Upon it we see !
Twas never surrendered
Except to the free !
54; THE SWORD AND THE STAFF.
III.
"While Fame claims the hero
And patriot sage,
Their names to emblazon
On history's page,
No holier relics
Will Liberty hoard
Than FRANKLIN'S staff, guarded
By WASHINGTON'S sword.
THE CHIEFTAIN'S DAUGHTER.
THE CHIEFTAIN'S DAUGHTER,
i.
UPON the barren sand
A single captive stood ;
Around him came, with bow and brand,
The red-men of the wood.
Like him of old, his doom he hears,
Rock-bound on ocean's rim :
The chieftain's daughter knelt in tears,
And breathed a prayer for him.
ii.
Above his head in air
The savage war-club swung :
The frantic girl, in wild despair,
Her arms about him flung.
Then shook the warriors of the shade,
Like leaves on aspen-limb
Subdued by that heroic maid
Who breathed a prayer for him.
56 THE CHIEFTAIN'S DAUGHTER.
III.
" Unbind him !" gasped the chief
" Obey your king's decree !"
He kissed away her tears of grief,
And set the captive free.
'Tis ever thus, when, in life's storm,
Hope's star to man grows dim,
An angel kneels in woman's form,
And breathes a prayer for him.
THY WILL BE DON E. 57
THY WILL BE DONE.
i.
SEARCHER of Hearts! from mine erase
All thoughts that should not be,
And in its deep recesses trace
My gratitude to Thee !
rr.
Hearer of Prayer! oh, guide aright
Each word and deed of mine ;
Life's battle teach me how to fight,
And be the victory Thine.
in.
Giver of All ! for every good
In the Redeemer came
For raiment, shelter and for food,
I thank Thee in His name.
58 T II Y W ILL BE DON E.
IV.
Father and Son and Holy Ghost !
Thou glorious Three in One !
Thou knowest Lest what I need most,
And let Thy will be done.
LIFE IN THE WEST. 59
LIFE IN THE WEST.
Ho! brothers come liithcr and list to my story
Merry and brief will the narrative be :
Here, like a monarch, I reign in my glory
Master am I, boys, of all that I see !
Where once frowned a forest, a garden is smiling
The meadow and moorland are marshes no more ;
And there curls the smoke of my cottage, beguiling
The children who cluster like grapes round my door.
Then enter, boys ; cheerly, boys, enter and rest ;
The land of the heart is the land of the West !
Oho, boys ! oho, boys ! oho !
ii.
Talk not of the town, boys give me the broad prairie,
Where man, like the wind, roams impulsive and free ;
Behold how its beautiful colours all vary,
Like those of the clouds, or the deep-rolling sea !
60 LI FE I N Til E WEST.
A life in the woods, boys, is even as changing ;
"With proud independence we season our cheer,
And those who the world are for happiness ranging,
"Won't find It at all if they don't find it here.
Then enter, boys ; cheerly, boys, enter and rest ;
I'll show you the life, boys, we live in the West!
Oho, boys ! oho, boys ! oho !
in.
Here, brothers, secure from all turmoil and danger,
We reap what we sow, for the soil is our own ;
"We spread hospitality's board for the stranger,
And care not a jot for the king on his throne.
We never know want, for we live by our labour,
And in it contentment and happiness find ;
We do what we can for a friend or a neighbour,
And die, boys, in peace and good-will to mankind.
Then enter, boys ; cheerly, boys, enter and rest ;
You know how we live, boys, and die in the West !
Oho, boys ! oho, boys ! oho !
S O X G OF 31 A P. I N 'S M E N. 61
SONG OF MAKION'S MEN,
IN the ranks of Marion's band,
Through morass and wooded land,
Over beach of yellow sand,
Mountain, plain and valley,
A southern maid, in all her pride,
Marched gayly at her lover's side,
In such disguise
That e'en his eyes
Did not discover Sallie !
n.
"When returned from midnight tramp,
Through the forest dark and damp,
On his straw-couch in the camp,
In his dreams he'd dally
62 BO N G O F M A RI O N'S M E N.
"With that devoted, gentle fair,
Whose large black eyes and flowing hair
So near him seem,
That, in his dream,
He breathes his love for Sallie !
m.
Oh, what joy that maiden knew,
When she found her lover true !
Suddenly the trumpet blew,
Marion's men to rally !
To ward the death-spear from his side
In battle by Santee she died !
Where sings the surge
A ceaseless dirge
Near the lone grave of Sallie.
JAXET Men E A. G3
JANET McllEA.
SHE heard the fight was over,
And won the wreath of fame !
When tidings from her lover,
"With his good war-steed came :
To guard her safely to his tent,
The red-men of the woods were sent.
They led her where sweet waters gush
Under the pine-tree bough !
The tomahawk is raised to crush
'Tis buried in her brow !
She sleeps beneath that pine-tree now I
n.
Her broken-hearted lover
In hopeless conflict died !
The forest-leaves now cover
That soldier and his bride !
J A NET Men E A.
The frown of the Great Spirit fell
Upon the red-men like a spell !
~No more those waters slake their thirst,
Shadeless to them that tree !
O'er land and lake they roam accurst,
And in the clouds they see
Thy spirit, unavenged, McEeal
L I SETTE.
LISETTE.
YOUNG Love in myrtle shades reposed,
His bow and darts behind him slung ;
As dewy twilight round him closed,
Lisette these numbers sung :
" O Love ! thy sylvan bower
I'll fly while I've the power;
Thy primrose way leads maids where they
Love, honour and obey !"
n.
" Escape," the boy-god said, " is vain !"
And shook the diamonds from his wings
"I'll bind thee captive in my train,
Fairest of earthly things !"
" Go, saucy archer, go !
I freedom's value know :
Begone, I pray to none I '11 say
Love, honour and obey !"
C6 L I S E T T E.
III.
"Speed, arrow, to thy mark!" he cried-
Swift as a ray of light it flew !
Love spread his purple pinions wide,
And faded from her view !
Joy filled that maiden's eyes
Twin load-stars from the skies !
On bridal day, her lips did say,
" Love, honour and obey !"
MY MOTHER'S BIBLE. 67
MY MOTHER'S BIBLE.
i.
THIS book is all that 's left me now !
Tears will unbidden start
With faltering lip and throbbing brow
I press it to my heart.
For many generations past,
Here is our family tree ;
My mother's hands this Bible clasped ;
She, dying, gave it me.
n.
Ah ! well do I remember those
Whose names these records bear ;
Who round the hearth-stone used to close
After the evening prayer,
And speak of what these pages said,
In tones my heart would thrill !
Though they are with the silent dead,
Here are they living still !
63 MY MOTHER'S U I 15 L E.
III.
My father read this holy book
To brothers, sisters dear ;
How calm was my poor mother's look
Who leaned God's word to hear !
Her angel-faee I see it yet !
What thronging memories come !
Again that little group is met
Within the halls of home !
IV.
Thou truest friend man ever knew,
Thy constancy I've tried:
When all were false I found thee true,
My counsellor and guide.
The mines of earth no treasures give
That could this volume buy :
In teaching me the way to live,
It taught me how to die.
THE DOG-STAR RAGE S." C9
"THE DOG-STAR EAGES."
i.
UXSEAL, the city fountains,
And let the waters flow
In coolness from the mountains
Unto the plains below.
My brain is parched and erring,
The pavement hot and dry,
And not a breath is stirring
Beneath the burning sky.
n.
The belles have all departed
There does not linger one !
Of course the mart's deserted
By every mother's son,
Except the street musician,
And men of lesser note,
Whose only earthly mission
Is but to toil and vote.
'THE DOG-STAR RAGES."
III.
A woman blessings on her!
Beneath my window see ;
She 's singing what an honour !
" Oh ! Woodman, spare that tree 1"
Her "man" the air is killing
His organ's out of tune
They 're gone, with my last shilling,
To Florence's saloon.
rv.
New- York is most compactly
Of brick and mortar made
Thermometer exactly
One hundred in the shade !
A furnace would be safer
Than this my letter-room,
Where gleams the sun, a wafer
About to seal my doom.
v.
The town looks like an ogre,
The country like a bride ;
Wealth hies to Saratoga,
And Worth to Sunny-side.
THE DOG-STAR RAGE S."
"While Fashion seeks the islands
Encircled by the sea,
Taste finds the Hudson highlands
More beautiful and free.
VI.
The omnibuses rumble
Along their cobbled way
The " twelve inside" more humble
Than he who takes the pay :
From morn till midnight stealing,
His horses come and go
The only creatures feeling
The " luxury of wo !"
vn.
"We editors of papers,
"Who coin our brains for bread
By solitary tapers
"While others doze in bed,
Have tasks as sad and lonely,
However wrong or right,
But with this difference only,
The horses rest at night.
72 "THE DOO-STAR RAGES.
VIII.
From twelve to nearly fifty
I've toiled and idled not,
And, though accounted thrifty,
I 'm scarcely worth a groat ;
However, I inherit
"What few have ever gained
A bright and cheerful spirit
That never has complained.
IX.
A stillness and a sadness
Pervade the City Hall,
And speculating madness
Has left the street of Wall ;
The Union Square looks really
Both desolate and dark,
And that 's the case, or nearly,
From Battery to Park.
Had I a yacht, like Miller,
That skimmer of the seas
A wheel rigged on a tiller,
And a fresh gunwale breeze,
'THE DOG-STAR RAGES."
A crew of friends well chosen,
And all a-taimto, I
Would sail for regions frozen
I'd rather freeze than fry.
XI.
Oh, this confounded weather !
(As some one sung or said,)
My pen, though but a feather,
Is heavier than lead ;
At every pore I'm oozing
(I'm "caving in" to-day)
My plumptitude I'm losing,
And dripping fast away.
XII.
I'm weeping like the willow
That droops in leaf and bough -
Let Croton's sparkling billow
Flow through the city now ;
And, as becomes her station,
The muse will close her prayer :
God save the Corporation !
Long live the valiant Mayor 1
A L E Or E N D O F THE M II A W K.
A LEGEND OF THE MOHAWK.
IN the days that are gone, by this sweet-flowing water,
Two lovers reclined in the shade of a tree ;
She was the mountain-king's rosy-lipped daughter,
The brave warrior-chief of the valley was he.
Then all things around them, below and above,
Were basking as now in the sunshine of love
In the days that are gone, by this sweet-flowing stream.
ii.
In the days that are gone they were laid 'neath the willow,
The maid in her beauty, the youth in his pride ;
Both slain by the foeman who crossed the dark billow,
And stole the broad lands where their children reside :
Whose fathers, when dying, in fear looked above,
And trembled to think of that chief and his love,
In the days that are gone, by this sweet-flowing stream.
THE BALL- ROOM BELLE. 75
THE BALL-ROOM BELLE.
THE moon and all her starry train
Were fading from the morning sky,
"When home the ball-room belle again
Returned, with throbbing pulse and brain,
Flushed cheek and tearful eye.
H.
The plume that dancea above her brow,
The gem that sparkled in her zone,
The scarf of spangled leaf and bough,
Were laid aside they mocked her now,
When desolate and lone.
m.
That night how many hearts she won !
The reigning belle, she could not stir,
76 THE BALL- ROOM BELLE.
But, like the planets round the sun,
Her suitors followed all but one
One all the world to her !
IV.
And she had lost him ! Marvel not
That lady's eyes with tears were wet !
Though love by man is soon forgot,
It never yet was woman's lot
To love and to forget.
WE WERE BOYS TOGETHER. 77
WE WERE BOYS TOGETHER.
WE were boys together,
And never can forget
The school-house near the heather,
In childhood where we met ;
The humble home to memory dear,
Its sorrows and its joys ;
Where woke the transient smile or tear,
When you and I were boys.
n.
We were youths together,
And castles built in air,
Your heart was like a feather,
And mine weighed down with care ;
To you came wealth with manhood's prime,
To me it brought alloys
Foreshadowed in the primrose time,
When you and I were boys.
73 WE W.ERE BOYS TOGETHER.
III.
"We're old men together
The friends we loved of yore,
With leaves of autumn weather,
Are gone for evermore.
How blest to age the impulse given,
The hope time ne'er destroys
Which led our thoughts from earth to heaven,
When you and I were boys !
II, BOAT M A X, II A S T E ! 79
OH, BOATMAN, HASTE!
TWILIGHT.
OH, boatman, haste ! The twilight hour
Is closing gently o'er the lea !
The sun, whose setting shuts the flower,
Has looked his last upon the sea !
Row, then, boatman, row !
Row, then, boatman, row !
Row ! aha ! we 've moon and star !
And our skiff with the stream is flowing.
Heigh-ho ! ah ! heigh-ho !
Echo responds to my sad heigh-ho !
MIDNIGHT.
Oh, boatman, haste! The sentry calls
The midnight hour on yonder shore,
And silvery sweet the echo falls
As music dripping from the oar 1
80 O II, 15 U A T M AN, HASTE!
Row, then, boatman, row !
Row, then, boatman, row !
Row! afar fade moon and star!
While our skiff with the stream is flowing !
Heigh-ho ! ah ! heigh-ho !
Echo responds to my sad heigh-ho !
DAWN.
Oh, boatman, haste! The morning beam
Glides through the fleecy clouds above
So breaks on life's dark, murm'ring stream,
The rosy dawn of woman's love !
Row, then, boatman, row !
Row, then, boatman, row !
Row ! 'T is day ! away away !
To land with the stream we are flowing !
Heigh-ho ! dear one ho !
Beauty responds to my glad heigh-ho !
FUNERAL HYMN. 81
FUNERAL HYMN.
i.
" MAK dietli and wastetli away,
And where is lie?" Hark! from the skies
I hear a voice answer and say,
" The spirit of man never dies :
His body, which came from the earth,
Must mingle again with the sod ;
But his soul, which in heaven had birth,
Returns to the bosom of God."
n.
No terror has death, or the grave,
To those who believe in the Lord
We know the Redeemer can save,
And lean on the faith of his word ;
While ashes to ashes, and dust
We give unto dust, in our gloom,
The light of salvation, we trust,
Is hung like n. lamp in the tomb.
82 FUNERAL HYMN.
III.
The sky will be burnt as a scroll
The earth, wrapped in flames, will expire ;
But, freed from all shackles, the soul
Will rise in the midst of the fire.
Then, brothers, mourn not for the dead,
Who rest from their labours, forgiven :
Learn this from your Bible instead,
The grave is the gateway to heaven.
IV.
O Lord God Almighty ! to Thee
We tnrn as our solace above ;
The waters may fail from the sea,
But not from Thy fountains of love :
Oh, teach us Thy will to obey,
And sing with one heart and accord,
" He gave and He taketh away,
And praised be the name of the Lord !"
O'ER THE MOUNTAINS.
83
O'ER THE MOUNTAINS.
SOME spirit wafts our mountain lay
Hili ho ! boys, hili ho !
To distant groves and glens away !
Hili ho ! boys, hili ho !
E'en so the tide of empire flows
Ho ! boys, hili ho !
Rejoicing as it westward goes!
Ho ! boys, hili ho !
To refresh our weary way,
Gush the crystal fountains,
As a pilgrim band we stray
Cheerly o'er the mountains.
n.
The woodland rings with song and shout !
Hili ho ! boys, hili ho !
As though a fairy hunt were out !
Hili ho ! boys, hili ho !
O'EK THE MOUNTAINS.
E'en so the voice of woman cheers
Ho ! boys, hili ho !
The hearts of hardy mountaineers !
Ho ! boys, hili ho !
Like the glow of northern skies,
Mirrored in the fountains,
Beams the love-light of fond eyes,
As we cross the mountains.
W M A X. 85
WOMAN.
AH, woman! in this world of ours,
"What boon can be compared to thee?
How slow would drag life's weary hours,
Though man's proud brow were bound with flowers,
And his the wealth of land and sea,
If destined to exist alone,
And ne'er call woman's heart his own !
n.
My mother! At that holy name,
"Within my bosom there 's a gush
Of feeling, which no time can tame
A feeling, which, for years of fame,
I would not, could not, crush !
And sisters ! ye are dear as life ;
But when I look upon my wife,
My heart-blood gives a sudden rush,
86 W M A X.
And all my fond affections blend
In mother sisters wife and friend!
in.
Yes, woman's love is free from guile,
And pure as bright Aurora's ray ;
The heart will melt before her smile,
And base-born passions fade away !
Were I the monarch of the earth,
Or master of the swelling sea,
I would not estimate their worth,
Dear woman, half the price of thee.
R OS AB EL.
ROSABEL.
i.
I MISS tliee from my side, beloved,
I rniss tliee from my side ;
And wearily and drearily
Flows Time's resistless tide.
The world, and all its fleeting joys,
To me are worse than vain,
Until I clasp thee to my heart,
Beloved one, again.
IT.
The wildwood and the forest-path,
"We used to thread of yore,
"What bird and bee have flown with thee,
And gone for evermore !
There is no music in the grove,
No echo on the hill ;
But melancholy boughs are there
And hushed the whip-poor-will.
88 ROSABEL.
III.
I miss thee in the town, beloved,
I miss thee in the town ;
From morn I grieve till dewy eve
Spreads wide its mantle brown.
My spirit's wings, that once could soar
In Fancy's world of air,
Are crushed and beaten to the ground
By life-corroding care.
rv.
No more I hear thy thrilling voice,
Nor see thy winning face ;
That once would gleam like morning's beam,
In mental pride and grace :
Thy form of matchless symmetry,
In sweet perfection cast
Is now the star of memory
That fades not with the past.
v.
I miss thee everywhere, beloved,
I miss thee everywhere ;
Both night and day wear dull away,
And leave me in despair.
ROSA P> E L. 89
The banquet-hall, the play, the ball,
And childhood's sportive glee,
Have lost their spell for me, beloved,
My soul is full of thee !
VI.
Has Rosabel forgotten me,
And love I now in vain ?
If that be so, my heart can know
No rest on earth again.
A sad and weary lot is mine,
To love and be forgot ;
A sad and weary lot, beloved
A sad and weary lot !
90 THY TYRANT SWAY.
THY TYRANT SWAY.
THE heart that owns thy tyrant sway,
Whate'er its hopes may be,
Is like a bark that drifts away
Upon a shoreless sea !
No compass left to guide her on,
Upon the surge she's tempest-torn
And such is life to me !
ii.
And what is life when love is fled ?
The world, unshared by thee ?
I'd rather slumber with the dead,
Than such a waif to be !
The bark that by no compass steers
Is lost, which way soe'er she veers
And such is life to me !
A HERO OF THE REVOLUTION. 91
A HERO OF THE REVOLUTION
LET not a tear be shed !
Of grief give not a token,
Although the silver thread
And golden bowl be broken !
A warrior lived a Christian died !
Sorrow 's forgotten in our pride !
*n.
4
Go, bring his battle-blade,
His helmet and his plume !
And be his trophies laid
Beside him in the tomb,
Where files of time-marked veterans come
"With martial tramp and muffled drum !
92 A II ERG OF THE REVOLUTION.
III.
Give to the earth his frame,
To moulder and decay ;
But not his deathless name
That cannot pass away !
In youth, in manhood, and in age,
He dignified his country's page !
IV.
Green be the willow-bough
Above the swelling mound,
"Where sleeps the hero now
In consecrated ground :
Thy epitaph, O Delavan !
God's noblest work an honest man!
RHYME AND REASON. 93
RHYME AND REASON,
AN APOLOGUE.
Two children of the olden time,
In Flora's primrose season,
Were born. The name of one was Rhyme,
That of the other Reason.
And both were beautiful and fair,
And pure as mountain stream and air.
n.
As the boys together grew,
Happy fled their hours
Grief or care they never knew
In the Paphian bowers.
See them roaming, hand in hand,
The pride of all the choral band !
94 R II Y ME A X D R E A S N.
III.
Music with harp of golden strings,
Love with bow and quiver,
Airy sprites on radiant wings,
Nymphs of wood and river,
Joined the Muses' constant song,
As Rhyme and Eeason passed along.
IV.
But the scene was changed the boys
Left their native soil
Rhyme's pursuit was idle joys,
Reason's manly toil :
Soon Rhyme was starving in a ditch,
While Reason grew exceeding rich.
v.
Since the dark and fatal hour,
When the brothers parted,
Reason has had wealth and power
Rhyme 's poor and broken-hearted !
And now, or bright or stormy weather,
They twain are seldom seen together.
STARLIGHT RECOLLECTION S.
STARLIGHT RECOLLECTIONS,
'TWAS night. Near the murmuring Saone,
We met with no witnesses by,
But such as resplendently shone
In the blue-tinted vault of the sky:
Your head on my bosom was laid,
As you said you would ever be mine ;
And I. promised to love, dearest maid,
And worship alone at your shrine.
n.
Your love on my heart gently fell
As the dew on the flowers at eve,
"Whose bosoms with gratitude swell,
A blessing to give and receive :
And I knew by the glow on your cheek,
And the rapture you could not control,
No power had language to speak
The faith or content of your soul.
96 STARLIGHT RECOLLECTIONS.
III.
I love you as none ever loved
As the steel to the star I am true ;
And I, dearest maiden, have proved
That none ever loved me but you.
Till Memory loses her power,
Or the sands of my being have run,
I'll remember the star-lighted hour
That mingled two hearts into one.
E A II I K S M Y L V E ?
WEARIES MY LOYE?
i.
WEARIES my love of my letters?
Does slie my silence command?
Sunders slie Love's rosy fetters
As though they were woven of sand?
Tires she too of each token
Indited with many a sigh ?
Are all her promises broken?
And must I love on till I die ?
n.
Thinks my dear love that I blame her
With what was a burden to part?
Ah, no ! with affection I'll name her
While lingers a pulse in my heart.
Although she has clouded with sadness,
And blighted the bloom of ray years,
I love her still, even to madness,
And bless her through showers of tears
L.
98 WEARIES MY LOVE?
III.
My pen I have laid down in sorrow,
The songs of my lute I forego ;
From neither assistance I'll borrow
To utter my heart-seated wo !
But peace to her bosom, wherever
Her thoughts or her footsteps may stray
Memento of mine again never
Will shadow the light of her way !
FARE TITEE WELL, LOVE. 99
FARE THEE WELL, LOYE.
i.
FARE tliee well, love ! "We must sever!
Not for years, love ; but for ever !
We must meet no more or onl j
Meet as strangers sad and lonely.
Fare thee well !
n.
Fare thee well, love! How I languish
For the cause of all my anguish !
ISTone have ever met and parted
So forlorn and broken-hearted.
Fare thee well !
in.
Fare thee well, love! Till I perish
All iny truth for thee I'll cherish ;
And, when thou my requiem hearcst,
Know till death I loved thee, dearest.
Fare thee well !
100 THOU HAST W O V E X T II K S P E L L.
THOU HAST WOVEN THE SPELL.
i.
THOU hast woven the spell tliat liatli bound me,
Through all the sad changes of years ;
And the smiles that I wore when I fbnnd thee,
Have faded and melted in tears !
Like the poor, wounded fawn from the mountain,
That seeks out the clear silver tide,
I have lingered in vain at the fountain
Of hope with a shaft in my side !
IT,
Thou hast taught me that Love's rosy fetters
A pang from the thorns may impart ;
That the coinage of vows and of letters
Comes not from the mint of the heart.
Like the lone bird that flutters her pinion,
And warbles in bondage her strain,
I have struggled to fly thy dominion,
But find that the struggle is vain !
BESSY BELL. 101
BESSY BELL.
WHEN life looks drear and lonely, love,
And pleasant fancies flee,
Then will the Muses only, love,
Bestow a thought on me !
Mine is a harp which Pleasure, love,
To waken strives in vain;
To Joy's entrancing measure, love,
It ne'er can thrill again !
"Why mock me, Bessy Bell ?
ir.
Oh, do not ask me ever, love,
For rapture-woven rhymes ;
For vain is each endeavour, love,
To sound Mirth's play-bell chimes !
102 BESSY BELL.
Yet still believe me, dearest love,
Though sad my song may be,
This heart still doats sincerest, love,
And grateful turns to thee
My once fond Bessy Bell !
in.
Those eyes still rest upon me, love !
I feel their magic spell !
With that same look you won me, love,
Fair, gentle Bessy Bell !
My doom you've idly spoken, love
You never can be mine !
But though my heart is broken, love,
Still, Bessy, it is thine !
Adieu, false Bessy Bell !
THE DAY IS X W DAWXIXG. 10
THE DAY IS XOW DAWXIXG,
W I L L I A II.
THE day is now dawning, love,
Fled is the night
I go like the morning, love,
Cheerful and bright.
Then adieu, dearest Ellen :
When evening is near,
I'll visit thy dwelling,
For true love is here.
ELLEN.
Oh, come where the fountain, love,
Tranquilly flows ;
Beneath the green mountain, love,
Seek for repose ;
There the days of our child hood,
In love's golden beam,
'Hong the blue-bells and wildwood,
Passed on like a dream.
THE DAY IS NOW DAWNIXG.
WILLIAM.
Oh, linger awhile, love !
ELLEN.
I must away.
WILLIAM.
Oh, grant ine thy smile, love,
'Tis Hope's cheering ray
With evening expect me.
ELLEN.
To the moment be true,
And may angels protect thee-
B o T n.
Sweet Ellen, adieu!
Dear "William, adieu!
AV II K X O T IT E R F R I E X D 3. 1 05
WHEN OTHER FEIEXDS.
i.
WHKN other friends are round thee,
And other hearts are thine
When other bays have crowned thee,
More fresh and green than mine
Then think how sad and lonely
This doating heart will be,
Which, while it throbs, throbs only,
Beloved one, for thee !
n.
Yet do not think I doubt thee,
I know thy truth remains ;
I would not live without thee,
For all the world contains.
Thou art the star that guides me
Along life's troubled sea \
And whatever fate betides me,
Tliis heart still turns to thee.
10G S I L K X T R I E F.
SILENT GRIEF.
i.
WHERE is now my peace of mind ?
Gone, alas ! for evermore :
Turn where'er I may, I find
Thorns where roses bloomed before !
O'er the green fields of my soul,
Where the springs of joy were found,
Now the clouds of sorrow roll.
Shading all the prospect round !
ii.
Do I merit pangs like these,
That have cleft my heart in twain?
Must I, to the very lees,
Drain thy bitter chalice, Pain?
Silent grief all grief excels ;
Life and it together part
Like a restless worm it dwells
Deep within the human heart !
r
L Y E THEE, D E A II E S T ? 107
LOVE TIIEE, DEAREST?
i.
LOVE thee, dearest? Hear me. Kever
Will my fond vows be forgot!
May I perish, and for ever,
When, dear maid, I love thee not!
Then turn not from me, dearest! Listen !
Banish all thy doubts and fears !
And let thine eyes with transport glisten !
What hast thou to do with tears?
ii.
Dry them, dearest! Ah, believe me,
Love's bright flame is burning still!
Though the hollow world deceive thee,
Here's a heart that never will!
Dost thou smile? A cloud of sorrow
Breaks before Joy's rising sun !
Wilt thou give thy hand? To-morrow,
Hymen, dearest, makes us one !
108 A SCE X E AT SEA.
A SCEXE AT SEA.
ABOVE our heads the moon and stars
"Were smiling brightly and serene,
Painting the waves with silver bars,
And lighting up that ocean-scene :
And on our right the lightnings threw
Their shafts of fire far and free ;
"While, like a bird with proud wings, flew
Our vessel through that snow-curled sea,
And all above, below, around,
Was full of grandeur ! Every sound
The winds and waters breathed were such
As I had never heard before !
Oh, who can tell the heart how much
At such an hour it will adore
Tli' Inscrutable First Cause which we
Behold in everything at sea !
I LOVE T II E X I II T. 109
I LOVE THE Ts T IGIIT.
i.
I LOVE the night when the moon streams bright
On flowers that drink the dew
"When cascades shout as the stars peep out,
From boundless fields of blue ;
But dearer far than moon or star,
Or flowers of gaudy hue,
Or gurgling trills of mountain-rills,
I love, I love, love you!
ir.
I love to stray at the close of day,
Through "roves of forest-trees,
O O '
"When gushing notes from song-birds v throats
Are vocal in the breeze.
Llove the night the glorious night
"When hearts beat warm and true ;
But far above the night, I love,
I love, I love, love yon !
HO THE MINIATURE.
THE MINIATURE.
WILLIAM was holding in his Land
The likeness of his wife
Fresh, as if touched by fairy wand,
With beauty, grace and life.
He almost thought it spoke :
He gazed upon the treasure still,
Absorbed, delighted and amazed,
To view the artist's skill.
n.
"This picture is yourself, dear Jane
'Tis drawn to nature true :
I've kissed it o'er and o'er again,
It is so much like you."
" And has it kissed you back, my dear ?"
"Why no my love," said he.
" Then, William, it is very clear
'Tis not at all like me /"
T ir ;; i: ,
THE EETORT.
OLD Xick, who taught the village-school,
Wedded a maid of homespun habit;
He was as stubborn as a mule,
She was as playful as a rabbit.
ii.
Poor Jane had scarce become a wife,
Before her husband sought to make her
The pink of country-polished life,
And prim and formal as a quaker.
in.
One day the tutor went abroad,
And simple Jenny sadly missed him ;
"When he returned, behind her lord
She slyly stole, and fondly kissed him!
112 THE IIETOHT.
IV.
The husband's anger rose! and red
And white his face alternate grew !
"Less freedom, ma'am !" Jane sighed and said,
" Oh, dear ! I dldrit know 'twas you /"
LINES OX A POET.
113
LIXES OX A POET.
How sweet the cadence of his lyre !
What melody of words !
They strike a pulse within the heart
Like songs of forest-birds,
Or tinkling of the shepherd's bell
Among the mountain-herds.
ii.
His mind's a cultured garden,
Where Xature's hand has sown
The flower-seeds of poesy
And they have freshly grown,
Imbued with beauty and perfume
To other plants unknown.
in.
A bright career's before him
All tongues pronounce his praise ;
LINES ON A POET.
All hearts his inspiration feel,
And will in after-days ;
For genius breathes in every lino
Of his soul- thrill ing lays.
IV.
A nameless grace is round him
A something, too refined
To be described, jet must be felt
By all of human kind
An emanation of the soul,
That cannot be defined.
v.
Then blessings on the minstrel
His faults let others scan :
There may be spots upon the sun,
Which those may view that can ;
I see them not yet know him well
A POET AND A MAN.
THE BACCHANAL. Ho
THE BACCHANAL,
i.
BESIDE a cottage-door,
Sung Ella at her wheel ;
Ruthven rode o'er the moor,
Down at her feet to kneel :
A spotted palfrey gay
Came ambling at his side,
To bear the maid away
As his affianced, bride,
n.
A high-born noble he,
Of stately halls secure ;
A low-born peasant she,
Of parentage obscure.
How soft the honeyed words
He breathes into her ears!-
The melody of birds !
The music of the spheres !
110 THE BACCHANAL.
III.
"With love her bosom swells,
"Which she would fail conceal -
Her eyes, like crystal wells,
Its hidden depths reveal.
"While liquid diamonds drip
From feeling's fountain warm,
Flutters her scarlet lip
A rose-leaf in a storm !
IV.
As from an April sky
The rain-clouds flit away,
So from the maiden's eye
Vanished the falling spray,
"Which lingered but awhile
Her dimpled cheek upon
Then melted in her smile,
Like vapour in the sun.
v.
The maid is all his own
She trusts his plighted word,
And, lightly on the roan,
She springs beside her lord.
THE B A C C II A X A L.
She leaves her father's cot,
She turns her from the door
That green and holy spot
Which she will see no more !
vr.
They hied to foreign lands,
That lord and peasant-maid :
The church ne'er blessed their banns,
And Ella was betrayed !
Then drooped the lovely flower,
Torn from its parent-stem ;
Then fled in evil hour
The light from out the gem !
VII.
They laid her in the ground,
And Ella was forgot
Dead was her father found
In his deserted cot.
But Rnth ven what of him?
lie ran the story o'er,
And, filling to the brim,
He thought of it no more !
118 TWENTY YEARS AGO.
TWENTY YEARS AGO.
i.
'TWAS in the flush of summer-time,
Some twenty years or more,
"When Ernest lost his way, and crossed
The threshold of our door.
I'll ne'er forget his locks of jet,
His brow of Alpine snow,
His manly grace of form and face,
Some twenty years ago.
n.
The hand he asked I freely gave
Mine was a happy lot,
In all my pride to be his bride
"Within my father's cot.
The faith he spoke he never broke :
His faithful heart I know ;
And well I vow I love him now
As twenty years ago.
NATIONAL A XT II EM. 119
NATIONAL ANTHEM.
i.
FREEDOM spreads her downy wings
Over all created things ;
Glory to the King of kings,
Bend low to Him the knee !
Bring the heart before His throne
Worship Him and Him alone !
He's the only King we own
And He has made us free !
ii.
The holiest spot a smiling sun
E'er shed his genial rays upon,
Is that which gave a Washington
The drooping world to cheer !
Sound the clarion-peals of fame !
Ye who bear Columbia's name !
With existence freedom came
It is man's birthright here !
1-20 IS* A T I O X A L A X T II F. M.
III.
Heirs of an immortal sire,
Let his deeds your hearts inspire ;
Weave the strain and wake the lyre
Where your proud altars stand !
Hail with pride and loud hurrahs,
Streaming from a thousand spars,
Freedom's rainbow-flag of stars
The symbol of our land !
I LOVE THEE STILL. 1 21
I LOYE THEE STILL.
i.
I NEVEE have been false to tliee !
The heart I gave thee still is thine ;
Though thou hast been untrue to me,
And I no more may call thee mine !
I've loved, as woman ever loves,
"With constant soul in go'od or ill :
Thou 'st proved, as man too often proves,
A rover but I love thee still !
n.
Yet think not that my spirit stoops
To bind thee captive in my train !
Love's not a flower, at sunset droops,
But smiles when comes her god again !
Thy words, which fall unheeded now,
Could >nce my heart-strings madly thrill!
Love's golden chain and burning vow
Are broken but I love thee still!
122 I LOVE T1IEE STILL.
III.
Once what a heaven of bliss was ours,
"When love dispelled the clouds of care,
And time went by with birds and flowers,
While song and incense filled the air !
The past is mine the present thine
Should thoughts of me thy future fill,
Think what a destiny is mine,
To lose but love thee, false one, still!
LOOK FROM THY LATTICE, LOVE. 123
LOOK FROM THY LATTICE, LOYE,
LOOK from thy lattice, love
Listen to me !
The cool, balmy breeze
Is abroad on the sea !
The moon, like a queen,
Roams her realms above,
And naught is awake
But the spirit of love.
Ere morn's golden light
Tips the hills with its ray,
Away o'er the waters
Away and away !
Then look from thy lattice, love
Listen to me,
While the moon lights the sky,
And the breeze curls the sea !
124: LOOK FROM THY LATTICE, LOVE.
II.
Look from thy lattice, love
Listen to me !
In the voyage of life,
Love our pilot will be I
He'll sit at the helm
"Wherever we rove,
And steer by the load-star
lie kindled above !
His gem-girdled shallop
"Will cut the bright spray,
Or skim, like a bird,
O'er the waters away !
Then look from thy lattice, love
Listen to me,
While the moon lights the sky,
And the breeze curls the sea 1
SHE LOVED II I M.
SHE LOYED HIM.
I.
SHE loved him but she heeded not
Her heart had only room for pride :
All other feelings were forgot,
When she became another's bride.
As from a dream she then awoke,
To realize her lonely state,
And own it was the vow she broke
That made her drear and desolate !
n.
She loved him but the sland'rer came,
With words of hate that all believed ;
A stain thus rested on his name
But he was wronged and she deceived !
Ah ! rash the act that gave her hand,
That drove her lover from her side
Who hied him to a distant land,
Where, battling for a name, he died!
120 SHE LOVED HIM.
III.
She loved him and his memory now
Was treasured from the world apart :
The calm of thought was on her brow,
The seeds of death were in her heart.
For all the world that thing forlorn
I would not, could not be, and live
That casket with its jewel gone,
A bride who has no heart to give !
THE SUITORS. 127
THE SUITOKS.
WEALTH sought the bower of Beauty,
Dressed like a modern beau :
Just then Love, Health and Duty
Took up their hats to go.
Wealth such a cordial welcome met,
As made the others grieve ;
So Duty shunned the gay coquette,
Love, pouting, took French leave
He did!
Love, pouting, took French leave !
n.
Old Time, the friend of Duty,
Next called to see the fair ;
He laid his hand on Beauty,
And left her in despair.
128 THE SUITORS.
"Wealth vanished! Last went rosy Ilealth-
And she was doomed to prove
That those who Duty slight for Wealth,
Can never hope for Love
Ah, no !
Can never hope for Love !
ST. AGXES' SIIRIXE. 129
ST. AGXES' SHKIXE.
i.
WHILE before St. Agnes' shrine
Knelt a true knight's lady-love,
From the wars of Palestine
Came a gentle carrier-dove.
Round his neck a silken string
Fastened words the warrior writ :
At her call he stooped his wing,
And upon her finger lit.
n.
She, like one enchanted, pored
O'er the contents of the scroll
For that lady loved her lord
"With a pure, devoted soul.
To her heart her dove she drew,
"While she traced the burning line ;
Then away his minion flew
Back to sainted Palestine.
130
ST. AG NES' S II R I X E.
III.
To and fro, from hand to hand
Came and went a carrier-dove,
Till throughout the Holy Land
War resigned his sword to Love.
Swift her dove, on wings of light,
Brought the news from Palestine,
And the lady her true knight
"Wedded at St. Agnes' shrine.
WESTERN R E F R A I X. 131
WESTEKX REFRAIN
DROOP not, brothers !
As we go,
O'er the mountains,
Westward ho !
Under boughs of mistletoe,
Log-huts we '11 rear,
"While herds of deer and buffalo
Furnish the cheer.
File o'er the mountains steady, boys!
For game afar
"We have our rifles ready, boys !
Aha!
Throw care to the winds,
Like chaff, boys ! ha !
And join in the laugh, boys
Hah hah hah!
132 WESTERN REFRAIX.
II.
Cheer up, brothers 1
As we go,
O'er the mountains,
"Westward hoi
When we've wood and prairie land,
Won by our toil,
We '11 reign like kings in fairy -land,
Lords of the soil !
Then westward ho ! in legions, boys
Fair Freedom's star
Points to her sunset regions, boys!
Aha!
Throw care to the winds,
Like chaff, boys! ha!
And join in the laugh, boys
Hah hah hah f
THE PRAIRIE OX FIRE.
THE PKAIEIE ON FIEE.
i.
THE shades of evening closed around
The boundless Prairies of the west,
As, grouped in sadness on the ground,
A band of pilgrims leaned to rest :
Upon the tangled weeds were laid
The mother and her youngest born,
Who slept, while others watched and prayed,
And thus the weary night went on.
n.
Thick darkness shrouded earth and sky
When on the whispering winds there came
The Teton's shrill and thrilling cry,
And heaven was pierced with shafts of flame !
The sun seemed rising through the haze,
But with an aspect dread and dire :
The very air appeared to blaze !
God ! the Prairie was on fire 1
134 THE TRAIRIE OX FIRE.
III.
Around the centre of the plain
A belt of flame retreat denied
And, like a furnace, glowed the train
That walled them in on every side :
And onward rolled the torrent wild
Wreathes of dense smoke obscured the sky !
The mother knelt beside her child,
And all save one shrieked out, "We die!"
IV.
" Not so !" he cried. " Help ! Clear the sedge !
Strip bare a circle to the land !"
That done, he hastened to its edge,
And grasped a rifle in his hand :
Dried weeds he held beside the pan,
Which kindled at a flash the mass !
" Now fire fight fire !" he said, as ran
The forked flames among the grass.
v.
On three sides now the torrent flew,
But on the fourth no more it raved !
Then large and broad the circle grew,
And thus the pilgrim band was saved !
T II K P R A I 11 I K O X F I R E.
The flames receded far and wide -
The mother had not prayed in vain :
God had the Teton's arts defied !
His scythe of fire had sv.'ept the plain !
136 THE EVERGREEN.
THE EVERGREEN".
i.
LOVE cannot be the aloe-tree,
Whose bloom but once is seen ;
Go search the grove the tree of love
Is sure the evergreen :
For that's the same, in leaf or frame,
'JSTeath cold or sunny skies ;
You take the ground its roots have bound,
Or it, transplanted, dies !
n.
That love thus shoots, and firmly roots
In woman's heart, we see ;
Through smiles and tears in after-years
It grows a fadeless tree.
The tree of love, all trees above,
For ever may be seen,
In summer's bloom or winter's gloom,
A hardy evergreen.
THE MAY-QUEEX. 137
THE MAY-QUEEN.
LIKE flights of singing-birds went by
The cheerful hours of girlhood's day,
When, in my native bowers,
Of simple buds and flowers
They wove a crown, and hailed me Queen of May !
n.
Like airy sprites the lasses came,
Spring's offerings at my feet to lay ;
The crystal from the fountain,
The green bough from the mountain,
They brought to cheer and shade the Queen of May.
m.
Around the May-pole on the green,
A fairy ring they tripped away ;
All merriment and pleasure,
To chords of tuneful measure
They bounded by the happy Queen of May.
138 THE MAY-QUEEN.
IV.
Though years have passed, and Time has strown
My raven locks with flakes of gray,
Fond Memory brings the hours
Of buds and blossom-showers
"When in girlhood I was crowned the Queen of May.
V E X E T IAN S E R E X A D E. 1 ,39
SERENADE.
i.
COME, come to me, love !
Come, love ! Arise !
And sliame the bright stars
With the light of thine eyes ;
Look out from thy lattice
Oh lady-bird, hear !
A swan on the water
My gondola 's near !
n.
Come, come to me, love !
Come, love ! My bride !
O'er crystal in moonbeams
We '11 tranquilly glide :
In the dip of the oar
A melody flows
Sweet as the nightingale
Sings to the rose.
1-10 VENETIAN SERENADE.
III.
Come, come to me, love !
Come, love! The day
Brings warder and cloister!
Away, then away !
Oh, haste to thy lover ;
Not yon star above
Is more true to heaven
Than he to his love !
THE TTIIir-PO K-TVILL.
THE WHIP-POOR-WILL.
" The plaint of the wailing Whip-poor-will,
Who mourns unseen, and ceaseless sings
Ever a note of wail and wo,
Till Morning spreads her rosy wings,
And earth and sky in her glances glow."
J. R. DRAKE.
WHY dost them come at set of sun,
Those pensive words to say ?
Why whip poor Will? What has he done?
And who is Will, I pray 2
n.
Why come from yon leaf-shaded hill,
A suppliant at my door ?
Why ask of me to whip poor Will ?
And is Will really poor ?
THE WHIP-POOR-WILL.
III.
If poverty 's his crime, let mirth
From out his heart be driven :
That is the deadliest sin on earth,
And never is forgiven !
rv.
Art "Will himself? It must be so
I learn it from thy moan,
For none can feel another's wo
As deeply as his own.
v.
Yet wherefore strain thy tiny throat,
"While other birds repose ?
"What means thy melancholy note?
The mystery disclose !
VI.
Still " "Whip poor will !" Art thou a sprite,
From unknown regions sent
To wander in the gloom of night,
And ask for punishment ?
THE AY IT I P - P O O R - W ILL. 1 -| 3
VII.
Is thine a conscience sore beset
"With guilt? or, what is worse,
Hast thou to meet writs, duns and debt
]S"o money in thy purse ?
Till.
If this be thy hard fate indeed,
Ah ! well may'st thou repine :
The sympathy I give I need
The poet's doom is thine !
IX.
Art thou a lover, Will? Hast proved
The fairest can deceive?
Thine is the lot of all who Ve loved
Since Adam wedded Eve !
Hast trusted in a friend, and seen
~No friend was he in need ?
A common error men still lean
Upon as frail a reed.
144 THE WHIP-POOR-WILL.
XL
Hast thou, in seeking wealth or fame,
A crown of brambles won ?
O'er all the earth 'tis just the same
With every mother's son !
XII.
Hast found the world a Babel wide,
Where man to Mammon stoops ?
Where flourish Arrogance and Pride,
While modest Merit droops ?
XIII.
What, none of these ? Then, whence thy pain ?
To guess it who 's the skill ?
Pray have the kindness to explain
Why I should whip poor Will ?
XIV.
Dost merely ask thy just desert?
What, not another word ?
Back to the woods again, unhurt
I will not harm thee, bird !
T II E W I! I P - P O R - W I I. L. 145
XV.
But use thee kindly for my nerves,
Like thine, have penance done :
" Use every man as he deserves,
Who shall 'scape whipping?" None!
XVI.
Farewell, poor "Will ! ISTot valueless
This lesson by thee given :
"Keep thine own counsel, and confess
Thyself alone to Heaven !"
: .
14G THE EXILE TO HIS SISTER.
THE EXILE TO HIS SISTER.
i.
As streams at morn, from seas that glide,
Rejoicing on their sparkling way,
Will turn again at eventide,
To mingle with their kindred spray
E'en so the currents of the soul,
Dear sister, wheresoe'er we rove,
Will backward to our country roll
The boundless ocean of onr love.
n.
Ton northern star, now burning bright,
The guide by which the wave-tossed steer,
Beams not with a more constant light
Than does thy love, my sister dear.
From stars above the streams below
Receive the glory they impart ;
So, sister, do thy virtues glow
Within the mirror of my heart.
NEAR THE LAKE.
NEAR THE LAKE.
the lake where drooped the willow,
Long time ago!
Where the rock threw back the billow,
Brighter than snow
Dwelt a maid, beloved and cherished
By high and low ;
But with autumn's leaf she perished,
Long time ago !
n.
Rock and tree and flowing water,
Long time ago !
Bee and bird and blossom taught her
Love's spell to know !
While to my fond words she listened,
Murmuring low T ,
Tenderly her dove-eyes glistened,
Long time ago !
NEAR THE LAKE.
III.
Mingled were our hearts for ever,
O *
Long time ago !
Can I now forget her? Never!
No lost one no!
To her grave these tears are given,
Ever to flow :
She's the star I missed from heaven,
Long time ago !
THE PASTOR'S DAUGHTER. 14.9
THE PASTOR'S DAUGHTER.
i.
AN ivy-mantled cottage smiled,
Deep-wooded near a streamlet's side,
Where dwelt the village-pastor's child,
In all her maiden bloom and pride.
Proud suitors paid their court and duty
To this romantic sylvan beauty :
Yet none of all the swains who sought her,
"Was worthy of the pastor's daughter.
ii.
The town-gallants crossed hill and plain,
To seek the groves of her retreat ;
And many followed in her train,
To lay their riches at her feet.
But still, for all their arts so wary,
From home they could not lure the fairy.
A maid without a heart they thought her,
And so they left the pastor's daughter.
150 THE PASTOR'S DAUGHTER.
III.
One balmy eve in dewy spring
A bard became her father's guest :
He struck his harp, and every string
To love vibrated in her breast.
"With that true faith which cannot falter,
Her hand was given at the altar,
And faithful was the heart he brought her
To wedlock and the pastor's daughter.
IV.
How seldom learn the worldly gay
With all their sophistry and art,
The sweet and gentle primrose-way
To woman's fond, devoted heart !
They seek, but never find, the treasure,
Revealed in eyes of jet and azure.
To them, like truth in wells of water,
A fable is the pastor's daughter.
MAR GAR ETTA.
MARGARETTA.
i.
WHEN I was in my teens,
I loved dear Margaretta :
I know not what it means,
I cannot now forget her!
That vision of the past
My head is ever crazing ;
Yet, when I saw her last,
I could not speak for gazing !
Oh, lingering rose of May !
Dear as when first I met her;
Worn is my heart alway,
Life-cherished Margaretta !
n.
We parted near the stile,
As morn was faintly breaking:
For many a weary mile
Oh how my heart was aching !
152 MARGARETTA.
But distance, time and change,
Have lost me Margaretta ;
And yet 'tis sadly strange
That I cannot forget her !
O queen of rural maids
My dark-eyed Margaretta
The heart the mind upbraids
That struggles to forget her !
in.
My love, I know, will seem
A wayward, boyish folly ;
But, ah ! it was a dream
Most sweet most melancholy.
Were mine the world's domain,
To me 'twere fortune better
To be a boy again,
And dream of Margaretta.
Oh ! memory of the past,
Why linger to regret her?
My first love was my last
And that is Margaretta !
THE COLONEL. 153
THE COLOXEL.
i.
THE Colonel! Such a creature!
I met him at the ball !
So fair in form and feature.
And so divinely tall !
lie praised my dimpled cheeks and curls,
"While whirling through the dance,
And matched me with the dark-eyed girls
Of Italy and France !
n.
He said, in accents thrilling
"Love's boundless as the sea;
And I, dear maid, am willing
To give up all for thee !"
I heard him blushed "TVould ask mamma"-
And then my eyes grew dim !
He looked I said, "Mamma papa
I'd give up all for him !"
154: THE COLONEL.
III.
My governor is ricli and old ;
This well the Colonel knew.
" Love's wings," he said, " when fringed with gold,
Are beautiful to view !"
I thought his 'haviour quite the ton,
Until I saw him stare
When merely told that brother John
Papa would make his heirl
rv.
Next day and the day after
I dressed for him in vain ;
Was moved to tears and laughter
He never came again !
But I have heard, for Widow Dash
He bought the bridal ring ;
And he will wed her for her cash
The ugly, hateful thing!
THE SWEEP'S CAROL. 155
THE SWEEP'S CAEOL.
THROUGH the streets of ]S"ew-York city,
Blithely every morn,
I carolled o'er my artless ditty,
Cheerly though forlorn !
Before the rosy light, my lay
Was to the maids begun,
Ere winter snows had passed away,
Or smiled the summer sun.
Carol O a y e o !
n.
In summer months I'd fondly woo
Those merry, dark-eyed girls,
With faces of the ebon hue,
And teeth like eastern pearls !
156 THE SWEEP'S CAROL.
One vowed ray love slie would repay -
Her heart my song had won,
When winter snows had passed away,
And smiled the summer sun.
Carol O a y e o !
in.
A year, alas ! had scarcely flown
Hope beamed but to deceive
Ere I was left to weep alone,
From morn till dewy eve !
She died one dreary break of day !
Grief weighs my heart upon!
In vain the snows may pass away,
Or smile the summer sun.
Carol O a y e o !
THE SEASONS OF LOVE. 151
THE SEASONS OF LOVE
i.
THE spring-time of love
Is both happy and gay,
For Joy sprinkles blossoms
And balm in our way ;
The sky, earth and ocean
In beauty repose,
And all the bright future
Is couleur de rose.
ii.
The summer of love
Is the bloom of the heart,
"When hill, grove and valley
Their music impart ;
And the pure glow of heaven
Is seen in fond eyes,
As lakes show the rainbow
That's hung in the skies.
158 THE SEASONS OF LOVE.
III.
The autumn of love
Is the season of cheer
Life's mild Indian summer,
The smile of the year?
Which comes when the golden
Ripe harvest is stored,
And yields its own blessings
Repose and reward.
IV.
The winter of love
Is the beam that we win
While the storm scowls without,
From the sunshine within.
Love's reign is eternal
The heart is his throne,
And he has all seasons
Of life for his own.
MY W D L A X D B R I D E. 1 59
MY WOODLAND BRIDE.
i.
HERE upon the mountain-side
Till now we met together ;
Here I won my woodland bride,
In flush of summer weather.
Green was then the linden-bough,
This dear retreat that shaded ;
Autumn winds are round me now,
And the leaves have faded.
ii.
She whose heart was all my own,
In this summer-bower,
With all pleasant things has flown,
Sunbeam, bird and flower !
But her memory w T ill stay
With me, though we 're parted
From the scene I turn away,
Lone and broken-hearted !
160 II, THINK OF ME!
OH, THINK OF ME!
i.
OH, think of me, my own beloved,
Whatever cares beset thee !
And when thou hast the falsehood proved,
Of those with smiles who met thee
While o'er the sea, think, love, of me,
Who never can forget thee ;
Let Memory trace the trysting-place,
Where I with tears regret thee.
n.
Bright as yon star, within my mind,
A hand unseen hath set thee ;
There hath thine image been enshrined,
Since first, dear love, I met thee ;
So in thy breast I fain would rest,
If, haply, fate would let me
And live or die, wert thou but nigh,
To love or to regret me !
11 Y B A II K 1 S O U T U P X T II E S E A. 161
MY BAEK IS OUT UPON THE SEA,
i.
MY bark is out upon the sea
The moon's above ;
Her light a presence seems to me
Like woman's love.
My native land I've left behind
Afar I roam ;
In other climes no hearts I'll find
Like those at home.
n.
Of all yon sisterhood of stars,
But one is true :
She paves my path with silver bars,
And beams like you,
"Whose purity the waves recall
In music's flow,
As round my bark they rise and fall
In liquid snow.
162 MY BARK IS OUT UPON THE SEA.
III.
The fresli'ning breeze now swells onr sails !
A storm is on !
The weary moon's dim lustre fails
The stars are gone !
Not so fades Love's eternal light
When storm-clouds weep ;
I know one heart's with me to-night
Upon the deep !
WILL NOBODY MARRY ME! 163
WILL NOBODY MARRY ME?
HEIGH-HO ! for a husband ! Heigh-ho !
There 's clanger in longer delay !
Shall I never again have a beau?
Will nobod v marry me, pray !
I begin to feel strange, I declare !
With beauty my prospects will fade
I'd give myself up to despair
If I thought I should die an old maid !
n.
I once cut the beaux in a huff
I thought it a sin and a shame
That no one had spirit enough
To ask me to alter my name.
So I turned up my nose at the short,
And cast down my eyes at the tall ;
But then I just did it in sport
And now I 've no lover at all !
161 WILL NOBODY MARRY ME?
III.
These men are the plague of my life :
'Tis hard from so many to choose !
Should any one wish for a wife,
Could I have the heart to refuse?
I don't know for none have proposed
Oh, dear me! I'm frightened, I vow!
Good gracious ! who ever supposed
That I should be single till now ?
THE STAR OF LOVE. 165
THE STAE OF LOVE.
i.
THE star of love now shines above,
Cool zephyrs crisp the sea ;
Among the leaves the wind-harp weaves
Its serenade for thee.
The star, the breeze, the wave, the trees,
Their minstrelsy unite,
But all are drear till thou appear
To decorate the night.
IT.
The light of noon streams from the moon,
Though with a milder ray ;
O'er hill and grove, like woman's love,
It cheers us on our way.
Tims all that's bright the moon, the night,
The heavens, the earth, the sea
Exert their powers to bless the hours
"We dedicate to thee.
166 WELL-A-DAY!
WELL-A-DAY!
LOVE comes and goes like a spell !
How, no one knows, nor can tell !
Now here now there then away!
None dreameth where ! "Well-a-day !
n.
Love should be true as the star
Seen in the blue sky afar !
Not here now here like the lay
Of lutes in th' air ! "Well-a-day !
m.
Should love depart, not a tie
Binds up the heart till we die !
Now here now there sad we stray!
Life is all care ! Well-a-day !
X T M A R R I E D Y L T ! 107
NOT MARRIED YET!
T.
I'M single yet I'm single yet!
And years have ilown since I came out!
In vain I sigh in vain I fret
Ye gods! what are the men about?
I vow I'm twenty ! O ye powers!
A spinter's lot is hard to bear
On earth alone to pass her hours,
And afterward lead apes down there!
IT.
K"o offer yet no offer yet!
I'm puzzled quite to make it out:
For every beau my cap I set
What, what, what are the men about?
They don't propose they won't propose,
For fear, perhaps, I'd not say, " Yes!"
Just let them try for Heaven knows
I'm tired of single-blessedness.
108 NOT MARRIED YET!
III.
Not married yet not married yet
The deuce is in the men, I fear !
I'm like a something to be let,
And to be let alone that's clear.
They say, "She's pretty but no chink-
And love without it runs in debt !"
It agitates my nerves to think
That I have had no offer yet !
LADY OF ENGLAND.
LADY OF ENGLAND,
LADY OF ENGLAND o'er the seas
Thy name was borne on every breeze,
Till all this sunset clime became
Familiar with Yictoria's name.
n.
Though seas divide us many a mile,
Yet, for the Queen of that fair isle,
From which our fathers sprung, there roves
A blessing from this Land of Groves.
m.
Our Fatherland ! Fit theme for song !
When thou art named, what memories throng !
Shall England cease our love to claim ?
.Not while our language is the same.
170 LADY OF ENGLAND.
IV.
Scion of kings ! so live and rei^n,
That, when thy nation's swelling strain
Is breathed amid our forests green,
"We too may sing, " God save the Queen !"
OH, THIS LOVE! 171
OH, THIS LOVE!
i.
OH, this love this love !
I ainse the passion slighted ;
But hearts that truly love,
Must break or be united.
Oh, this love !
n.
"When first lie cam' to woo,
I little cared aboot him ;
But scene I felt as though
I could na' live without him.
Oh, this love !
in.
He brought to me the ring,
My hand asked o' my mither-
I could na' bear the thought
That he should wed anither.
Oh, this love !
172 OH, THIS LOVE!
IV.
And now I'm a' his ain
In a' his joys I mingle ;
Nae for the wealth of warlds
Wad I again be single !
Oh, this love 1
MARY. 173
MAEY.
ONE balmy summer night, Mary,
Just as the risen moon
Had cast aside her fleecy veil,
We left the gay saloon ;
And in a green, sequestered spot,
Beneath a drooping tree,
Fond words were breathed, by you forgot,
That still are dear to me, Mary,
That still are dear to me.
n.
Oh, we were happy then, Mary
Time lingered on his way,
To crowd a lifetime in a night,
"Whole ages in a day !
If star and sun would set and rise
Thus in our after-years,
17 i MARY.
The world would be a paradise,
And not a vale of tears, Mary,
And not a vale of tears.
in.
I live but in the past, Mary
The glorious days of old !
"When love was hoarded in the heart,
As misers hoard their gold :
And often like a bridal train,
To music soft and low,
The by-gone moments cross my brain,
In all their summer glow, Mary,
In all their summer glow.
IV.
These visions form and fade, Mary,
As age comes stealing on,
To bring the light and leave the shade
Of days for ever gone !
The poet's brow may wear at last
The bays that round it fall;
But love has rose-buds of the past
Far dearer than them all, Mary,
Far dearer than them all !
THE BEAM OF D E V T T O X.
175
THE BEAM OF DEYOTION.
I NEVER could find a good reason
Why Sorrow unbidden should stay,
And all the bright joys of life's season
Be driven unheeded away.
Our cares would wake no more emotion,
Were we to our lot but resigned,
Than pebbles flung into the ocean,
That leave scarce a ripple behind.
n.
The world has a spirit of beauty,
Which looks upon all for the best
And while it discharges its duty,
To Providence leaves all the rest :
That spirit's the beam of devotion,
Which lights us through life to its close,
And sets, like the sun in the ocean,
More beautiful far than it rose.
L_
1TG THE WELCOME AND FAREWELL.
THE WELCOME A^D FAEEWELL.
i.
To meet and part, as we have met and parted,
One moment cherished and the next forgot,
To wear a smile when almost broken-hearted,
I know full well is hapless woman's lot ;
Yet let me, to thy tenderness appealing,
Avert this brief but melancholy doom
Content that close beside the thorn of feeling,
Grows memory, like a rose, in guarded bloom.
n.
Love's history, dearest, is a sad one ever,
Yet often with a smile I've heard it told!
Oh, there are records of the heart which never
Are to the scrutinizing gaze unrolled !
Mine eye to thine may scarce again aspire
Still in thy memory, dearest, let me dwell,
And hush, with this hope, the magnetic wire,
Wild with our mingled welcome and farewell !
TIS NOW THE PROMISED HOUR. 177
TIS NOW THE PROMISED HOUR
A SERENADE.
I.
THE fountains serenade the flowers,
Upon their silver lute
And, nestled in their leafy bowers,
The forest-birds are mute :
The bright and glittering hosts above
Unbar their golden gates,
While Nature holds her court of love,
And for her client waits.
Then, lady, wake in beauty rise!
Tis now the promised hour,
When torches kindle in the skies
To light thee to thy bower.
u.
The day we dedicate to care
To love the witching night ;
For all that's beautiful and fair
In hours like these unite.
.
178 TIS NOW THE PROMISED HOUR.
E'en thus the sweets to flowerets given
The moonlight on the tree
And all the bliss of earth and heaven
Are mingled, love, in thee.
Then, lady, wake in beauty rise !
'Tis now the promised hour,
"When torches kindle in the skies
To light thee to thy bower !
THE SONGS OF HOME. 179
THE SONGS OF HOME.
OH, sing once more those dear, familiar lays,
"Whose gliding measure every bosoin thrills,
And takes my heart back to the happy days
When first I sung them on my native hills !
With the fresh feelings of the olden times,
I hear them now upon a foreign shore
The simple music and the artless rhymes !
Oh, sing those dear, familiar lays once more,
Those cheerful lays of other days
Oh, sing those cheerful lays once more !
n.
Oh, sing once more those joy-provoking strains,
Which, half forgotten, in my memory dwell ;
They send the life-blood bounding through my veins,
And linger round me like a fairy spell.
180 THE SONGS OF HOME.
The songs of liorne are to the human heart
Far dearer than the notes that song-birds pour,
And of our very nature form a part :
Then sing those dear, familiar lays once more !
Those cheerful lays of other days
Oh, sing those cheerful lays once more !
MASONIC HYMN. 181
MASONIC HYMN.
OUK Order, like the ark of yore,
Upon the raging sea was tossed ;
Secure amid the billow's roar,
It moved, and nothing has been lost.
n.
"When elements discordant seek
To wreck what God in mercy saves,
The struggle is as vain and weak
As that of the retiring waves.
in.
The Power who bade the waters cease,
The Pilot of the Pilgrim Band,
He gave the gentle dove of peace
The branch she bore them from the land.
182 MASONIC HYMN.
IV.
In Him alone we put our trust,
With heart and hand and one accord,
Ascribing, with the true and just,
All " holiness unto the Lord."
THE DISMISSED.
THE DISMISSED.
11 1 suppose she was right in rejecting my suit,
But why did she kick me down stairs V
HALLECK'S " Discarded."
THE wing of my spirit is broken,
My day-star of hope has declined ;
For a month not a word have I spoken
That's either polite or refined.
My mind's like the sky in bad weather,
When mist-clouds around us are curled
And, viewing myself altogether,
I 'm the veriest wretch in the world !
n.
I wander about like a vagrant
I spend half my time in the street ;
My conduct's improper and flagrant,
For I quarrel with all that I meet.
184: THE DISMISSED.
My dress, too, is wholly neglected,
My hat I pull over my brow,
And I look like a fellow suspected
Of wishing to kick up a row.
in.
In vain I've endeavoured to borrow
From friends "some material aid"
For my landlady views me with sorrow,
When she thinks of the bill that's unpaid.
Abroad my acquaintances flout me,
The ladies cry, " Bless us, look there !"
And the little boys cluster about me,
And sensible citizens stare.
IV.
One says, "He's a victim to Cupid;"
Another, "His conduct's too bad;"
A third, "He is awfully stupid;"
A fourth, " He is perfectly mad !"
And then I am watched like a bandit,
Mankind with me all are at strife :
By Heaven, no longer I'll stand it,
But quick put an end to my life !
THE DISMISSED. 185
V.
I've thought of the means yet I shudder
At dagger or ratsbane or rope ;
At drawing with lancet my blood, or
At razor without any soap !
Suppose I should fall in a duel,
And thus leave the stage with eclat f
But to die with a bullet is cruel
Besides, 't would be breaking the law !
VI.
Yet one way remains : to the river
I'll fly from the goadings of care !
But drown? oh! the thought makes me shiver-
A terrible death, I declare !
Ah, no ! I'll once more see my Kitty,
And parry her cruel disdain
Beseech her to take me in pity,
And never dismiss me again.
186 LORD OF THE CASTLE.
LORD OF THE CASTLE.
" LOED of the castle ! oh, where goest thou ?
Why is the triumph of pride on thy brow ?"
" Pilgrim, my bridal awaits me to-day,
Over the mountains away and away."
n.
" Flora in beauty and solitude roves,
List'ning for thee in the shade of the groves."
" Pilgrim, I hasten her truth to repay,
Over the mountains away and away."
in.
" Guided by honour, how brilliant the road
Leading from cottage to castle abode 1"
" Pilgrim, its dictates I learned to obey,
Over the mountains away and away."
THE FALLEN BRAVE. 187
THE FALLEN BEAVE.
i.
FROM cypress and from laurel boughs
Are twined, in sorrow and in pride,
The leaves that deck the mouldering brows
Of those who for their country died :
In sorrow, that the sable pall
Enfolds the valiant and the brave ;
In pride, that those who nobly fall
"Win garlands that adorn the grave.
ii.
The onset the pursuit the roar
Of victory o'er the routed foe
Will startle from their rest no more
The fallen brave of Mexico.
To God alone such spirits yield !
He took them in their strength and bloom,
When gathering, on the tented field,
The garlands woven for the tomb.
188 THE FALLEN BRAVE.
III.
The shrouded flag the drooping spear
The muffled drum the solemn bell
The funeral train the dirge the bier
The mourners' sad and last farewell
Are fading tributes to the worth
Of those whose deeds this homage claim ;
But Time, who mingles them with earth
Keeps green the garlands of their fame.
SO KG OF THE TROUBADOUR. ISO
SONG OF THE TROUBADOUR.
IN IMITATION OF THE LAYS OF THE OLDEN TIME.
" COME, list to the lay of the olden time,"
A troubadour sung on a moonlit stream :
"The scene is laid in a foreign clime,
"A century back and love is the theme."
Love was the theme of the troubadour's rhyme,
Of lady and lord of the olden time.
n.
" At an iron-barred turret, a lady fair
" Knelt at the close of the vesper-chime :
" Her beads she numbered in silent prayer
"For one far away, whom to love was her crime.
"Love," sung the troubadour, "love was a crime,
"When fathers were stern, in the olden time.
190 SONG OF THE TROUBADOUR.
III.
" The warder had spurned from the castle-gate
"The minstrel who wooed her in flowing rhyme
" lie came back from battle in regal estate
" The bard was a prince of the olden time.
"Love," sung the troubadour, "listened to rhyme,
" And welcomed the bard of the olden time.
IF.
"The prince in disguise had the lady sought;
" To chapel they hied in their rosy prime :
" Thus worth won a jewel that wealth never bought,
" A fair lady's heart of the olden time.
"The moral," the troubadour sung, " of my rhyme,
" Was well understood in the olden time."
CHAMPIONS OF LIBERTY. 1!>1
CHAMPIONS OF LIBEETY.
THE pride of all our chivalry,
The name of "Worth will stand,
"While throbs the pulse of liberty
"Within his native land :
The wreath his brow was formed to wear,
A nation's tears will freshen there.
n.
The young companion of his fame,
In war and peace allied,
"With garlands woven round his name,
Reposes at his side :
Duncan, whose deeds for evermore
Will live amid his cannon's roar.
102 CHAMPIONS OF LIBERTY,
III.
*
Gates, in his country's quarrel bold,
When she to arras appealed,
Sought, like the Christian knights of old,
His laurels on the field :
Where victory rent the welkin-dome,
He earned a sepulchre at home.
IV.
The drum-beat of the bannered brave,
The requiem and the knell,
The volley o'er the soldier's grave,
His comrades' last farewell,
Are tributes rendered to the dead,
And sermons to the living read.
y.
But there 's a glory brighter far
Than all that earth has given ;
A beacon, like the index-star,
That points the way to heaven :
It is a life well spent its close
The cloudless sundown of repose.
CHAMPIONS OF LIEERTY. 193
That sucli was theirs for whom we mourn,
These obsequies attest ;
And though in sorrow they are borne
Unto their final rest,
A guide will their example be
To future champions of the free.
19-t THE IIUXTER'S CAROL.
THE HUNTER'S CAROL.
i.
A MEEEY life does the hunter lead !
He wakes with the dawn of day ;
He whistles his dog he mounts his steed,
And sends to the woods away !
The lightsome tramp of the deer he '11 mark,
As they troop in herds along ;
And his rifle startles the cheerful lark
As he carols his morning song !
n.
The hunter's life is the life for me !
That is the life for a man !
Let others sing of a home on the sea,
But match me the woods if you can !
Then give me a gun I've an eye to mark
The deer as they bound along !
My steed, dog and gun, and the cheerful lark
To carol my morning song !
WASHINGTON'S MONUMENT. 105
WASHINGTON'S MOXUMEXT.
A MONUMENT to Washington?
A tablet graven with his name?
Green be the mound it stands upon,
And everlasting as his fame !
n.
His glory fills the land the plain,
The moor, the mountain and the mart !
More firm than column, urn or fane,
His monument the human heart.
nr.
The Christian patriot hero sage !
The chief from heaven in mercy sent ;
His deeds are written on the age
His country is his monument.
190 WASHINGTON'S MONUMENT.
IV.
" The sword of Gideon and the Lord"
Was mighty in his mighty hand
The God who guided he adored,
And with His blessing freed the land.
y.
The first in war the first in peace
The first in hearts that freemen own ;
Unparalleled till time shall cease
He live& immortal and alone.
VI.
Yet let the rock-hewn tower arise,
High to the pathway of the sun,
And speak to the approving skies
Our gratitude to Washington.
THE SISTER'S APPEAL. 197
THE SISTER'S APPEAL.
A FRAGMENT.
**********
I.
You remember don't you, brother
In our earlj^ years,
The counsels of our poor, dear mother,
And her hopes and fears ?
She told us to love one another
Brother, dry your tears !
ir.
We are only two, dear brother,
In this babel wide !
In the churchyard sleeps poor mother,
By our father's side !
Then let us cherish one another
Till in death we bide.
**********
198 SONG OF THE REAPERS.
SONG OF THE REAPERS.
JOYOUS the carol that rings in the mountains,
"While the cleared vales are refreshed by the fountains-
After the harvest the cheerful notes fall,
And all the glad reapers re-echo the call !
La ra la la, &c.
ii.
Oh, how the heart bounds at that simple refrain !
Dear haunts of my childhood, I'm with you again!
Green be your valleys, enriched by the rills,
And long may that carol be sung on your hills !
La ra la la, &c.
A LTE R G A Y.
WALTER GAY.
i.
To know a man well, it is said, Walter Gay,
On shipboard with him yon should be :
If this maxim 's true, then well I know you,
For we sailed together the sea, "Walter Gay,
For we sailed together the sea.
IT.
I now watch the star from the strand, Walter Gay,
As oft from the surge I did then :
Like that all alone you sparkled and shone,
The clear northern star among men, Walter Gay,
The clear northern star among men !
in.
May your future course, like the past, "Walter Gay,
From wreck and misfortune be free:
Your sorrows and care fade into the air,
Or vanish like foam on the sea, "Walter Gay,
Or vanish like foam on the sea !
200 WALTER GAY.
IV.
The friendship that's formed on the wave, Walter Gay,
Is deeper than plummet may sound :
That cannot decay till we lose our way,
Or death runs the vessel aground, Walter Gay,
Or death runs the vessel aground !
v.
When life's voyage ends, may your bark, Walter Gay,
Spread sail like the wings of a dove
And, when lulls the wind, safe anchorage find
Within the good haven above, Walter Gay,
Within the good haven above 1
II I' X I) S F II D I V U C E. 201
GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE,
i.
HE.
WHAT can a man do when a woman 's perverse.
And determined to have her own way ?
s H E.
At the altar you took me for better or worse :
Am I worse than you took me for say,
Silly elf?
Am I worse than you took me for, say ?
ii.
HE.
For an angel I took you in beauty and worth
The priest a mere woman has given !
SHE.
A man would prefer a true woman on earth,
To all the bright angels in heaven
Silly elf!
To all the bright angels in heaven !
202 GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE.
III.
HE.
You ever are ready my feelings to hurt
At the veriest trifle, of course.
SHE.
Forgetting a button to sew on your shirt
You deem a good ground for divorce
Silly elf! -
You deem a good ground for divorce !
IV.
HE.
Well, marriage a lottery is, and a blank
Some men surely draw all their lives.
SHE.
Such fellows as you, sir, themselves have to thank
Good husbands make always good wives
Silly elf! -
Good husbands make always good wives !
TEMPERANCE S X G. 203
TEMPERANCE SONG.
(WRITTEN FOK THE LADY BY WHOM IT WAS SUNG.)
AIR "Some lone to roam."
I.
SOME love to stroll where the wassail-bowl
And the wine-cups circle free ;
None of that band shall win my hand :
No ! a sober spouse for me.
Like cheerful streams when morning beams,
"With him my life would flow ;
Not down the crags, the drunkard drags
His wife to want and wo !
Oh ! no, no, no ! oh ! no, no, no !
ii.
At midnight dark, the drunkard mark
Oh, what a sight, good lack !
As home draws near, to him appear
Grim fiends who cross his track !
204 TEMPERANCE SONG.
His children's name he dooms to shame
His wife to want and wo ;
She is betrayed, for wine is made
Her rival and her foe.
Oh ! no, no, no ! oh ! no, no, no !
BOAT-SONG. 20;
BOAT-SONG.
PULL away merrily over the waters!
Tug to your oars for the wood-tangled shore ;
We're off and afloat with earth's loveliest daughters,
Worth all the argosies wave ever bore.
Pull away gallantly pull away valiantly -
Pull with a swoop, boys ; and pull for the shore :
Merrily, merrily, bend to the oar !
n.
Pull away cheerily ! land is before us
Green groves are flinging their balm to the spray;
The sky, like the spirit of love, bending o'er us,
Lights her bright torches to show ns the way.
Pull away charily pull away warily -
Pull with a nerve, boys ; together give way :
Merrily, merrily, pull to the lay !
206 BOAT-SONG.
III.
Pull away heartily light winds arc blowing,
Crisping the ripples that dance at our side ;
The moon bathes in silver the path we are going,
And Night is arrayed in her robes like a bride.
Pull away readily pull away steadily
Pull with a will, boys, and sing as we glide
Merrily, merrily, over the tide !
MILLIE. 207
WILLIE.
I CLASP your hand in mine, Willie,
And fancy I've the art
To see, while gazing in your face,
What's passing in your heart:
*Tis joy an honest man to hold,
That gem of modest worth,
More prized than all the sordid gold
Of all the mines of earth, Willie,
Of all the mines of earth.
n.
I've marked your love of right, Willie,
Your proud disdain of wrong ;
I know you'd rather aid the weak
Than battle for the strong.
208 WILLIE.
The golden rule religion's stay
"With constancy pursue,
Which renders others all that they
On earth can render you, Willie,
On earth can render you.
in.
A conscience void of guile, Willie,
A disposition kind,
A nature, gentle and sincere,
Accomplished and refined :
A mind that was not formed to bow,
An aspiration high,
Are written on your calm, clear brow,
And in your cheerful eye, Willie,
And in your cheerful eye.
IT.
I never look at you, Willie,
But with an anxious prayer
That you will ever be to me
What now I know you are.
V I L L I E. 209
I do not find ii fault to cliiJe,
A foible to annoy,
For you are all your father's pride,
And all your mothers joy, Willie,
And all your mother's joy.
Y.
You're all that I could hope, Willie,
And more than I deserve ;
Your pressure of affection now
I feel in every nerve.
I love you not for station land
But for yourself alone :
And this is why I clasp your hand,
So fondly in my own, Willie,
So fondly in my own.
210 THE HOCK OF THE T I L G R I M S.
THE KOCK OF THE PILGEIMS.
i.
A KOCK in the wilderness welcomed our sires,
From bondage far over the dark-rolling sea ;
On that holy altar they kindled the fires,
Jehovah, which glow in our bosoms for Thee.
Thy blessings descended in sunshine and shower,
Or rose from the soil that was sown by Thy hand ;
The mountain and valley rejoiced in Thy power,
And Heaven encircled and smiled on the land.
n.
The Pilgrims of old an example have given
Of mild resignation, devotion and love,
Which beams like the star in the blue vault of heaven,
A beacon-light swung in their mansion above.
In church and cathedral we kneel in our prayer
Their temple and chapel were valley and hill
But God is the same in the aisle or the air,
And He is the Kock that we lean upon still.
Y EARS A O 0. 211
YEAES AGO.
NEAK the banks of that lone river,
Where the water-lilies grow,
Breathed the fairest flower that ever
Bloomed and faded years ago.
n.
How we met and loved and parted,
None on earth can ever know
Nor how pure and gentle-hearted
Beamed the mourned one years ago !
n.
Like the stream with lilies laden,
Will life's future current flow,
Till in heaven I meet the maiden
Fondly cherished years ago.
212 YEARS AGO.
Hearts that love like mine forget not ;
They 're the same in weal or wo ;
And that star of memory set not
In the grave of years ago.
THE SOLDIER'S WELCOME HOME. 213
THE SOLDIER'S WELCOME HOME.
(WRITTEN UPON THE RETURN OF GENERAL SCOTT FROM HIS
BRILLIANT MEXICAN CAMPAIGN.)
VICTORIOUS the hero returns from the wars,
His brow bound with laurels that never will fade,
While streams the free standard of stripes and of stars,
Whose field in the battle the foeman dismayed.
When the Mexican hosts in their fury came on,
Like a tower of strength in his might he arose ;
Where danger most threatened his banner was borne,
Waving hope to his friends and despair to his foes !
n.
The soldier of honour and liberty hail !
His deeds in the temple of Fame are enrolled ;
His precepts, like flower-seeds sown by the gale,
Take root in the hearts of the valiant and bold.
214: THE SOLDIER'S WELCOME HOME.
The warrior's escutcheon his foes seek to blot,
But vain is the effort of partisan bands
For freemen will render full justice to SCOTT,
And welcome him home with their hearts in their hands.
THE GUI G IX OF Y A X K E E I) D L E. 215
THE OBIGIN OF YAXKEE DOODLE,
ONCE on a time old JOHNNY BULL
Flew in a raging fury,
And swore that JONATHAN should have
No trials, sir, by jury ;
That no elections should be held
Across the briny waters :
"And now," said he, "I'll tax the tea
Of all his sons and daughters."
Then down he sate in burly state,
And blustered like a grandee,
And in derision made a tune
Called " Yankee doodle dandy."
"Yankee doodle" these are facts
" Yankee doodle dandy ;
My son of wax, your tea I '11 tax
You Yankee doodle dandy!"
216 THE O 11 1 G I N OF YANKEE DOODLE.
II.
John sent the tea from o'er the sea
"With heavy duties rated ;
But whether hyson or bohea,
I never heard it stated.
Then Jonathan to pout began
He laid a strong embargo
"I'll drink no tea, by Jove!" so he
Threw overboard the cargo.
Next Johnny sent an armament,
Big looks and words to bandy,
Whose martial band, when near the land,
Played "Yankee doodle dandy."
"Yankee doodle keep it up !
Yankee doodle dandy !
I'll poison with a tax your cup
You Yankee doodle dandy!"
ra.
A long war then they had, in which
John was at last defeated ;
And " Yankee doodle" was the march
To which his troops retreated.
Young Jonathan, to see them fly,
Could not restrain his laughter :
THE ORIGIN OF YANKEE DOODLE. 217
"That tune,'' said lie, " suits to a T,
I'll sing it ever after!"
Old Johnny's face, to his disgrace,
Was flushed with beer and brandy,
E'en while he swore to sing no more
This "Yankee doodle dandy."
Yankee doodle ho! ha! he!
Yankee doodle dandy
We kept the tune, but not the tea,
Yankee doodle dandy !
IV.
I've told you now the origin
Of this most lively ditty,
"Which Johnny Bull pronounces " dull
And silly !" what a pity !
With " Hail Columbia !" it is sung,
In chorus full and hearty
On land and main we breathe the strain,
John made for his tea-party.
No matter how we rhyme the words,
The music speaks them handy,
And where 's the fair can't sing the air
Of "Yankee doodle dandy!"
218 THE RIG IX OF YANKEE DOODLE.
" Yankee doodle firm and true
Yankee doodle dandy,
Yankee doodle, doodle doo !
Yankee doodle dandy !"
LINKS. 210
LIXES
OX THE BUKIAL OF MRS. MARY L. WARD, AT DALE CEME-
TERY, SIXG-SIXG, MAY 3, 1S53.
THE knell was tolled the requiem sung,
The solemn burial-service read ;
And tributes from the heart and tongue
Were rendered to the dead.
u.
The dead ? Religion answers, "No!
She is not dead she cannot die !
A Christian left this vale of wo !
An angel lives on high !"
m.
The earth upon her coffin-lid
Sounded a hollow, harsh adieu !
The mound arose, and she was hid
For ever from the view !
220 LINKS.
For ever? Drearily the thought
Passed, like an ice-bolt, through the brain ;
"When Faith the recollection brought
That we shall meet again.
v.
The mourners wound their silent way
Adown the mountain's gentle slope,
"Which, basking in the smile of May,
Looked cheerfully as hope.
VI.
As hope? What hope? That boundless One
God in His love and mercy gave ;
Which brightens, with salvation's sun,
The darkness of the grave.
X E W - Y R K IX 1826.
NEW-YOEK IN 1826.
(ADDRESS OF THE CARRIER OF THE XEW-YORK: MIRROR, ON
THE FIRST DAY OF THAT YEAR.)
AIR "Songs of Shepherds in Rustical Roundelays."
Two years have elapsed since the verse of s. W.
Met jour bright eyes like a fanciful gem ;
"With that kind of stanza the muse will now trouble you,
She often frolics with one G. P. u.
As New Year approaches, she whispers of coaches,
And lockets and broaches, without any end,
Of sweet rosy pleasure, of joy without measure,
And plenty of leisure to share with a friend.
n.
'Tis useless to speak of the griefs of society
They overtake us in passing along ;
And public misfortunes, in all their variety,
Need not be told in a holidav song.
222 NEW-YORK IX 1826.
The troubles of Wall-street, I'm sure that you all meet.
And they're not at all sweet but look at their pranks
Usurious cravings, and discounts and shavings.
With maniac ravings and Lombardy banks.
in.
'Tis useless to speak of our dealers in cotton too,
Profits and losses but burden the lay ;
The failure of merchants should now be forgotten too,
Nor sadden the prospects of this festive day.
Though Fortune has cheated the hope near completed,
And cruelly treated the world mercantile,
The poet's distresses, when Fortune oppresses,
Are greater, he guesses but still he can smile.
rv.
'Tis useless to speak of the gas-light so beautiful,
Shedding its beams through " the mist of the night ;"
Eagles and tigers and elephants, dutiful,
Dazzle the vision with columns of light.
The lamb and the lion ask editor Tryon,
His word you'll rely on are seen near the Park,
From which such lights flow out, as wind cannot blow out,
Yet often they go out, and all's in the dark.
223
'Tis useless to speak of the seats on the Battery,
They're too expensive to give to the town;
Then our aldermen think it such flattery,
If the public have leave to sit down !
Our fortune to harden, they show Castle Garden
Kind muses, your pardon ; but rhyme it I must
Where soldiers were drilling, you now must be willing
To pay them a shilling so down with the dust.
TI.
'Tis uselesss to speak of our writers poetical,
Of Halleck and Bryant and Woodworth, to write ;
There are others, whose trades are political
Snowden and Townsend and "Walker and D wight.
There's Lang the detector, and Coleman the hector,
And Xoah the protector and judge of the Jews,
And King the accuser, and Stone the abuser,
And Grim the confuser of morals and news.
'Tis useless to speak of the many civilities
Shown to FATETTE in this country of late,
Or even to mention the splendid abilities
CLIOTOX possesses for ruling the state.
224: NEW-YORK IN 1826.
The union of water and Erie's bright daughter ,
Since Neptune has caught her they'll sever no more ;
And Greece and her troubles (the rhyme always doubles)
Have vanished like bubbles that burst on the shore.
VIII.
'Tis useless to speak of Broadway and the Bowery,
Both are improving and growing so fast !
Who would have thought that old STUYVESANT'S dowery
"Would hold in its precincts a play-house at last?
Well, wonder ne'er ceases, but daily increases,
And pulling to pieces, the town to renew,
So often engages the thoughts of our sages,
That when the fit rages, what will they not do ?
IX.
'Tis useless to speak of the want of propriety
In forming our city so crooked and long ;
Our ancestors, bless them, were fond of variety
It's naughty to say that they ever were wrong !
Tho' strangers may grumble, and thro' the streets stumble,
Take care they don't tumble through crevices small,
For trap-doors we've plentjvon sidewalk and entry,
And no one stands sentry to see they don't fall.
E W - Y R K IX 1826. 225
'Tis useless to speak of amusements so various,
Of opera-singers that few understand ;
Of Kean's reputation, so sadly precarious
"When he arrived in this prosperous land.
The public will hear him and hark ! how they cheer him !
Though editors jeer him we all must believe
He pockets the dollars of sages and scholars :
Of course then it follows he laughs in his sleeve.
XI.
'Tis useless to speak but just put on your spectacles,
Read about Chatham, and Peale's splendid show :
There 's Scudder and Dunlap they both have receptacles
Which, I assure you, are now all the go.
'Tis here thought polite too, should giants delight you,
And they should invite you, to look at their shapes;
To visit their dwelling, where Indians are yelling,
And handbills are telling of wonderful apes !
xn.
'Tis useless to speak of the din that so heavily
Fell on our senses as midnight drew near ;
Trumpets and bugles and conch-shells, so cleverly
Sounded the welkin with happy JS"ew Year!
220 X E W - Y R K IX 1826.
With jewsliarps and timbrels, and musical thimbles.
Tin-platters for cymbals, and frying-pans too ;
Dutch-ovens and brasses, and jingles and glasses,
With reeds of all classes, together they blew !
XIII.
Then since it is useless to speak about anything
All have examined and laid on the shelf,
Perhaps it is proper to say now and then a thing
Touching the "MIRROR" the day and myself.
Our work's not devoted, as you may have noted,
To articles quoted from books out of print;
Instead of the latter, profusely we scatter
Original matter that's fresh from the mint.
i xrv.
Patrons, I greet you with feelings of gratitude ;
Ladies, to please you is ever my care
Nor wish I, on earth, for a sweeter beatitude,
If I but bask in the smiles of the fair.
Such bliss to a poet is precious you know it
And while you bestow it, the heart feels content :
Your bounty has made us, and still you will aid us,
But some have not paid us we hope they'll repent!
S E W - Y O R K IX 1826. 227
XV.
For holiday pleasure, why these are the times for it ;
Pardon, me, then, for so trifling a lay ;
This stanza shall end it, if I can find rhymes for it
May you, dear patrons, be happy to-day !
Though life is so fleeting, and pleasure so cheating,
That we are oft meeting with accidents here,
Should Fate seek to dish you, oh then may the issue
Be what I now wish you A HAPPY NEW TEAK!
228 THE HERO'S LEGACY.
UPON the couch of death,
The champion of the free,
Gave, with his parting breath,
This solemn legacy :
" Sheathed be the battle-blade,
" And hushed the cannon's thunder :
" The glorious UNION God hath made,
" Let no man put asunder !
" War banish from the land,
" Peace cultivate with all !
" United you must stand,
"Divided you will fall!
" Cemented with our blood,
" The UNION keep unriven !"
"While freemen heard this counsel good,
His spirit soared to heaven.
"W HAT C A X IT ME A X ? 229
WHAT CAN IT MEAN?
i
(WRITTEN FOR MISS POOLE, AND SUNG BY HER IN THE
CHARACTER OF COWSLIP.)
I.
I'M much too young to marry,
For I am only seventeen ;
"Why think I, then, of Harry ?
What can it mean what can it mean?
n.
Wherever Harry meets me,
Beside the brook or on the green,
How tenderly he greets me !
What can it mean what can it mean?
m.
Whene'er my name he utters,
A blush upon my cheek is seen !
His voice my bosom nutters !
What can it mean what can it mean?
230 WHAT CAN IT MEAN?
IV.
If he but mentions Cupid,
Or, smiling, calls me " fairy queen,"
I sigh, and look so stupid !
What can it mean what can it mean?
v.
Oh, mercy ! what can ail me ?
I 'rn growing wan and very lean ;
My spirits often fail me !
What can it mean what can it mean?
VI.
I 'M NOT ra LOVE ! No ! Smother
Such a thought at seventeen !
I'll go and ask my mother
" What can it mean what can it mean?"
THE STORY OF A SOXG. 231
THE STOEY OF A SOXG.
(CONTAINED IN A LETTER TO A FRIEND WHO REQUESTED THE
HISTORY OF MY MOTHER'S BD3LE.)
I WROTE the song for Russell,
When I was poor and sad,
About "My Mother's Bible"
The only thing I had
Which sold for fifty dollars,
Much to his heart's content:
He put them in his pocket
I never had a cent !
n.
One day some Yankee minstrels,
The Hutchinsons by name,
Reset "My Mother's Bible"
(The tune was much the same)
232 THE STORY OF A SONG.
Which sold for forty dollars,
As sure as you're alive ;
And, like true-hearted fellows,
They gave me twenty-five !
in.
X
These facts alone, believe me,
Unto the words belong
The rest is all invented
To make a little song.
Don't set these lines to music,
Unless excuse the laugh
You sell them, like good fellows,
And give the poet half!
fl E R i: HUDSON'S W A V E. 233
WHERE HUDSON'S WAVE.
WHERE Hudson's wave o'er silvery sands
"Winds through the hills afar,
Old Cronest like a monarch stands,
Crowned with a single star !
And there, amid the billowy swells
Of rock-ribbed, cloud-capped earth,
My fair and gentle Ida dwells,
A nymph of mountain-birth.
IT.
The snow-flake that the cliff receives,
The diamonds of the showers,
Spring's tender blossoms, buds and leaves,
The sisterhood of flowers,
Morn's early beam, eve's balmy breeze,
Her purity define ;
Yet Ida's dearer far than these
To this fond breast of mine.
231 WHERE HUDSON'S WAVE.
III.
My heart is on the hills. The shades
Of night are on my brow :
Ye pleasant haunts and quiet glades,
My soul is with you now !
I bless the star-crowned highlands where
My Ida's footsteps roam :
O for a falcon's wing to bear
Me onward to my home !
A U R E V I R I 235
AU KEVOIK!
i.
LOVE left one day his leafy bower,
And roamed in sportive vein,
Where Yanity had built a tower,
For Fashion's sparkling train.
The mistress to see he requested,
Of one who attended the door :
" Not home," said the page, who suggested
That he'd leave his card. "Au revoir."
n.
Love next came to a lowly bower :
A maid who knew no guile,
Unlike the lady of the tower,
Received him with a smile.
Since then the cot beams with his brightness,
- Though often at Vanity's door
Love calls, merely out of politeness,
And just leaves his card. "Au revoir!"
236 EPI fT RAMS EPITAPH.
EPIGRAMS,
i.
ON HEADING GRIM 5 S ATTACK UPON CLINTON.
'Tis the opinion of the town
That Grim 's a silly elf:
In trying to write Clinton down,
He went right down himself.
ii.
ON HEAEING THAT MORSE DID NOT " INVENT" THE TELEGRAPH.
FIRST they said it would not do ;
But, when he got through it,
Then they vowed they always knew
That he didn't do it !
Lies are rolling stones, of course,
But they can't adhere to Morse.
EPITAPH.
ALL that's beautiful in woman,
All we in her nature love,
All that's good in all that's human,
Passed this gate to courts above.
THEATRICAL ADDRESSES. 9?,T
FOR THE BENEFIT OF WILLIAM DUN LA P.
(SPOKEN BY MRS. SHAKPE.)
WHAT gay assemblage greets my wondering sight !
What scene of splendour conjured here to-night!
What voices murmur, and what glances gleam !
Sure 'tis some flattering, unsubstantial dream.
The house is crowded everybody's here
For beauty famous, or to science dear;
Doctors and lawyers, judges, belles and beaux,
Poets and painters and Heaven only knows
Whom else beside! And see, guy ladies sit,
Lighting with smiles that fearful place, the pit
(A fairy change ah, pray continue it.)
Gray heads are here too, listening to my rhymes,
Full of the spirit of departed times ;
Grave men and studious, strangers to my sight,
All gather round me on this brilliant night.
238 THEATRICAL A D D 11 E S S E S.
And welcome are ye all. Not now ye come
To speak some trembling poet's awful doom ;
With frowning eyes a " want of mind" to trace
In some new actor's inexperienced face,
Or e'en us old ones (oh, for shame !) to rate
"With study good in time but never great:"
"Not like yon travelled native, just to say
" Folks in this country cannot act a play
They can't, 'pon honour !" How the creature starts !
His wit and whiskers came from foreign parts !
Nay, madam, spare your blushes you I mean
There close beside him oh, you're full nineteen
You need not shake your flowing locks at me
The man, your sweetheart then I'm dumb, you see;
I'll let him off you'll punish him in time,
Or I've no skill in prophecy or rhyme !
A nobler motive fills your bosoms now,
To wreathe the laurel round the silvered brow
Of one who merits it if any can
The artist, author and the honest man.
With equal charms his pen and pencil drew
Bright scenes, to nature and to virtue true.
Full oft upon these boards hath youth appeared,
And oft your smiles his faltering footsteps cheered ;
But not alone on budding genius smile,
Leaving the ripened sheaf unowned the while ;
T II E A T II 1 C A L A I) I) II ESSES. L'39
To boyish hope not every bounty give,
And only youth and beauty bid to live.
Will you forget the services long past
Turn the old war-horse out to die at last?
When, his proud strength and noble fleetness o'er,
His faithful bosom dares the charge no more !
Ah, no ! The sun that loves his beams to shed
Hound every opening floweret's tender head,
With smiles as kind his genial radiance throws
To cheer the sadness of the fading rose :
Thus he, whose merit claims this dazzling crowd,
Points to the past, and has his claims allowed ;
Looks brightly forth, his faithful journey done,
And rests in triumph like the setting sun.
240 THEATRICAL ADDRESSES.
ADDRESS
FOR THE BENEFIT OF JAMES SHERIDAN KNOWLES.
(SPOKEN BY MKS. CHAPMAN.)
NAY, Mr Simpson! 'Tis not kind polite
To shut me out, sir? I'm in such a fright!
I cannot speak the lines, I'm sure ! Oh, fie !
To say I must! but if I must I'll try!
From him I turn to these more generous souls,
The drama's patrons and the friends of KNOWLES.
"Why, what a brilliant galaxy is here !
What stars adorn this mimic hemisphere !
Names that shine brightest on our country's page !
The props of science literature the stage !
Above below around me woman smiles,
The fairest floweret of these western wilds
All come to pay the tribute of their praise
To the first dramatist of modern days :
THE A T R I C A L A D I) R E S S E S. 241
Arid welcome, to the green Lome of the free,
With heart and hand, the Lard of liLertv !
t v
His is a wizard-wand. Its potent spell
Broke the deep slumLer of the patriot Tell,
And placed him on his native hills again,
The pride and glory of his fellow-men !
The poet speaks for Rome Virginia Lleeds!
Bold Cains Gracchus in the forum pleads !
Alfred the Great, Lecause the good and wise,
Bids prostrate England Lurst her Londs and rise !
Sweet Bess, the Beggar's Daughter, beauty's queen,
Walks forth the joy and wonder of the scene !
The HunchLack enters kindly fond severe
And last, Lehold the glorious Wife appear !
These are the bright creations of a mind
o
Glowing with genius, chastened and refined.
In all he 's written, be this praise his lot :
" oSTot one word, dying, would he wish to blot !"
Upon my life 'tis no such easy thing
To laud the bard, unless an eagle's wing
My muse would take ; and, fixing on the sun
Her burning eye, soar as his own has done !
Did you speak, sir? What, madam, did he say?
Wrangling ! for shame ! before your wedding-day !
THEATRICAL ADDRESSES.
Nay, gentle lady, by thine eyes of blue,
And vermeil blushes, I did not mean you !
Bless me, what friends at every glance I see !
Artists and authors men of high degree ;
Grave politicians, who have weighed each chance
The next election, and the war with France ;
Doctors, just come from curing half a score
And belles, from killing twice as many more ;
Judges, recorders, aldermen and mayors,
Seated, like true republicans, down stairs !
All wear a glow of sunshine in their faces
Might well become Apollo and the graces,
Except one yonder, with a look infernal,
Like a blurred page from Fanny Kemble's Journal !
But to my task. The muse, when I began,
Spoke of the writer welcome ye the man.
Genius, at best, acts but an humble part,
Unless obedient to an honest heart.
And such a one is his, for whom, to-night,
These walls are crowded with this cheering sight.
Ye love the poet oft have conned him o'er
Knew ye the man, ye 'd love him ten times more.
Ye critics, spare him from your tongue and quill ;
Ye gods, applaud him ; and ye fops be still !
THEATRIC A L A D D R ]: S S E S.
ADDRESS
FOR THE BENEFIT OF HENRY PLACIDE
(SPOKEN BY MRS. HILSON.)
THE music 's done. Be quiet, Mr. Durie !
Tour bell and whistle put me in a fury !
Don't ring up yet, sir I've a word to say
Before the curtain rises for the play !
Tour pardon, gentlefolks, nor think me bold,
Because I thus our worthy prompter scold :
'Twas all feigned anger. This enlightened age
Requires a ruse to bring one on the stage !
Well, here I am, quite dazzled with the sight
Presented on this brilliant festal night !
Where'er I turn, whole rows of patrons sit
The house is full box, gallery and pit !
Who says the New-York public are unkind ?
I know them well, and plainly speak my mind
21 1 THEATRICAL ADDRESSES.
"It is our right," the ancient poet sung
He knew the value of a woman's tongue !
"With this I will defend ye and rehearse
Five glorious acts of jours in modern verse;
Each one concluding with a generous deed
For Dunlap, Cooper, Woodworth, Knowles, Placide !
'Twas nobly done, ye patriots and scholars!
Besides 'they netted twenty thousand dollars!
"A good round sum," in these degenerate times
" This bank-note world," so called in Halleck's rhymes ;
And proof conclusive, you will frankly own,
In liberal actions New-York stands alone.
Though roams he oft 'mong green poetic bowers,
The actor's path is seldom strewn with flowers.
His is a silent, secret, patient toil
While others sleep, he burns the midnight oil
Pores o'er his books thence inspiration draws,
And wastes his life to merit your applause !
O ye, who come the laggard hours to while,
And with the laugh-provoking muse to smile,
Remember this : the mirth that cheers you so,
Shows but the surface not the depths below!
Then judge not lightly of the actor's art,
Who smiles to please you, with a breaking heart !
Neglect him not in his hill-climbing course,
Nor treat him with less kindness than your horse:
T II E A T R I C A L ADDRESS E S.
Up hill, indulge him down the deep descent,
Spare and don't urge him when his strength is spent ;
Impel him briskly o'er the level earth,
But in the stable don't forget his worth !
So with the actor while you work him hard,
Be mindful of his claims to your regard.
But hold! methinks some carping cynic hero
Will greet my homely image with a sneer.
Well let us see I would the monster view:
Man with umbrageous whiskers, is it you ?
Ah, no I was mistaken : every brow
Beams with benevolence and kmdness now ;
Beauty and fashion all the circles grace
And scowling Envy here were out of place !
On every side the wise and good appear
The very pillars of the state are here !
There sit the doctors of the legal clan ;
There all the city's rulers, to a man ;
Critics and editors, and learned M. D.'S,
Buzzing and busy, like a hive of bees ;
And there, as if to keep us all in order,
Our worthy friends the Mayor and the Recorder !
Well, peace be with you ! Friends of native worth,
Yours is the power to call it into birth ;
24:6 THEATRICAL ADDRESSES.
Yours is the genial influence smiles upon
The budding flowerets opening to the sun.
They all around us court your fostering hand
Rear them with care, in beauty they'll expand -
With grateful odours well repay your toil,
Equal to those sprung from a foreign soil ;
And more Placides bask in your sunshine then,
The first of actors and the best of men.
THE
OR,
WHO'S THE TRAITOR?
AN
OPERA IN THREE ACTS.
FOUNDED UPON HISTORICAL EVENTS IN THE LIFE OF FREDERICK THE SECOND OF
PRUSSIA, RELATED BY MISS EDGEWORTFI, ZIMMERMANN, LATROBE,
AND OTHER WRITERS.
THE MUSIC
(With the exception of three German Melodies, nnd the characteristic Introduction)
COMPOSED BY
CHARLES E. HORN.
THE LIBRETTO BY GEORGE P. MORRIS.
The Scenery by Messrs. HILLYARD, WHEATLEY, and Assistants.
The Costumes by M. LOUIS.
The Properties and Decorations by. . M. DEJONGE.
The Machinery by M. SPEYERS.
The Orchestra increased, and the Choruses full and effective.
Leader of the Orchestra and Chorus-Master M. CHUBB.
The Music produced under the direction of Mr. C. E. HORN.
Stage-Manager Mr. BARKY.
DRAMATIS PERSONS,
FREDERICK II. (King of Prussia) Mr. CHIPPENDALE.
COUNT LANISKA (his Aid-de-Camp, a Pole) Mr. MANVERS.
ALBERT (a young Saxon student-at-law) Mr. FREDERICKS.
KARL (a Hungarian, Packer to the Royal Factory) Mr. C. E. HORN.
WEDGEWOOD (an English Merchant) Mr. PLACIDE.
BARON ALTENBERG (Attorney- General) Mr. BARRY.
JUDGE OF THE COURT Mr. CLARK.
HANS (an Innkeeper) Mr. ANDREWS.
HAROLD (an old Sergeant of Grenadiers) Mr. SEGUIN.
CORPORAL OF GRENADIERS (old man) Mr. FISHER.
BURGOMASTER Mr. POVET.
JAILOR OF TIIK CASTLE OF SPANDAU Mr. BELLAMY.
HERALD Mr. NELSON.
FIRST GENERAL Mr. KING.
SECOND GENERAL Mr. GALLOT.
Staff-Officers, Officers of State, Workmen of the Factory, Citizens, Advocates,
Jurymen, Grenadiers, Peasants, Travellers, Servants, d'c.
COUNTESS LANISKA Mrs. BARRY.
FREDERICA (her Daughter) Mrs. KNIGHT.
SOPHIA MANSFIELD (die Saxon. Maid) Mrs. C. E. HORN.
GERTRUDE Miss MARY TAYLOR,
Ladies of the Court, Factory-Girls, Peasants, d'c.
SCENE Berlin and Potsdam.
TIME Latter part of the reign of Frederick the Great.
THE MAID OF S A I N Y,
ACT I.
SCENE I.
Inside of a German Inn, on the road to Berlin. Fire
and candles nearly extinguished. Clock In the corner,
marking the hour of ten. HANS seated In an arm-
chair, asleep. Music. The curtain rises to the open-
Ing symphony. HANS yawns In his sleep.
(Enter GERTRUDE.)
GERTRUDE.
Ho ! Hans ! Why, Hans ! You Hans, I say !
Awake! Here '11 be the deuce to pay!
For coming guests get fire and lights,
And help me put the room to rights !
(HANS stretches and yawns)
Hans! I've no patience with tlie lout!
What, Hans, on earth are you about ?
(Shakes HANS, who yawns again)
252 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr L
Did ever room look so forlorn ?
Hans ! Hark ! I hear the postman's horn !
(Sounds of a horn in the distance. HANS stretcher, yaimis,
and rises.)
HANS.
What der tuyvel is der matter,
Dus you chitter chatter clatter?
GERTRUDE (aside.)
His impudence cannot be borne !
IIAJSTS.
What's datlhear?
GERTRUDE.
The postman's horn !
(/Sounds of horn again.)
Whose notes o'er moor and mountain flung
HANS.
Are not so noisy as your tongue !
(Horn sounds as though approaching whips are heard,
and the post-coach is supposed to arrive outside with
Passengers. Enter the Attendants, with portm anteaus,
carpet-lags, c&c., and Passengers.)
CHORUS.
Rejoice! rejoice! we're safe and sound,
And shelter for the night have found,
Within this snug abode !
SCENE I.] II , W II () 'S THE T U A I TOP./
Tlie dust may rise, the rain may fall
Beneath this roof we '11 smile at all
The dangers of the road !
SOLO.
Then let the cheerful board be spread ;
To supper first, and then to bed,
Till birds their songs begin :
Tims, whether sleeping or awake,
The weary traveller will take
His comfort at his inn.
CHORUS.
Rejoice! rejoice! we're safe, &c.
{Exit Passengers and Attendants.
GERTRUDE.
"Where in the world are all these people going to, Hans ?
HANS.
To Berlin, to shee der troops. Frederick musters dem
to-morrow at der capital. But why don't you attend to
der guests?
GERTRUDE.
Why don't you f You are not fit to keep an inn, Hans.
HANS.
I was not prought up to it ; mine pishiness was to keep
a paint-shop, and shell der colours to der artists.
GERTRUDE.
Don't stand here chattering about your fine colours
but look to the guests
254: THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr L
HANS.
Yaw, yaw, mein fraulein.
ALBERT (without.)
Ho ! landlord ! Waiters, look to our luggage !
WEDGEWOOD (speaking as he enters.)
If it is convenient.
{Enter ALBERT and WEDGEWOOD in cloaks, IrisHy)
GERTRUDE.
This way, gentlemen, this way.
ALBERT.
Two bed-chambers, landlord, as soon as possible.
HANS.
Yaw, mynheer.
(Gives directions to Attendant, who exits.)
WEDGEWOOD.
Landlady, take care of my coat and stick, and here 's
something for your pains.
GERTRUDE.
Yes, sir.
WEDGEWOOD (lookiny at her)
What a pretty girl !
GERTRUDE.
Is that all, sir ?
WEDGEWOOD (aside to GERTRUDE.)
No, that's not all. (Kisses her.) Take this into tho
bargain, you jade!
SCENE I.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 255
GEETEUDE (courtesies}
Thank you, sir. (Aside.] What a nice, queer old gen-
tleman !
HANS (taking her away passionately}
What 's dat to you ? Give me der tings (takes them.}
You do noding but ogle mit der young folks, and flirt
mit der old ones !
GEETEUDE.
Oh, you jealous brute ! [Exit in a huff.
WEDGEWOOD (noticing her}
Nice girl that odd, too, that she should have married
a man old enough to be her grandfather !
HANS (aside}
Dat queer chap in der brown vig I'm sure is a gay
deceiver, or he would not admire mine vife so much. I
must have mine eyes about me. [Exit.
WEDGEWOOD (noticing HANS and GEKTEUDE.)
Odd, very odd, very odd indeed! But now that we
are alone, pray continue the narrative you commenced
in the coach if it is convenient.
ALBERT.
Right willingly. Frederick, after his conquest of Sax-
ony, transported by force several manufacturers from
Dresden to Berlin, where he has established a Porcelain-
Factory
WEDGEWOOD.
Separated from their friends, home, and country, these
250 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr I.
unfortunate people are compelled to continue their la-
bours for the profit and glory of their conqueror I know
it go on
ALBERT.
Among those in bondage is Sophia Mansfield
WEDGEWOOD.
I have heard of her: a young, beautiful and singu-
larly-gifted girl
ALBERT.
Several pieces of her design and modelling were shown
to the king, when he was at Meissen, in Saxony ; and he
was so struck with their beauty, that he determined to
convey the artist, with other prisoners, to his capital
WEDGEWOOD.
Where he issued his royal edict, compelling the girls
of the factory to marry Prussian soldiers. Unfeelingly
odd!
ALBERT.
Sophia has yet escaped this tyranny. The overseer^
however, has demanded her hand ; but I shall be in time
to thwart his purposes.
WEDGEWOOD.
But, to effect that, you must also thwart the purposes
of Frederick himself, who, I understand, is as stubborn
as he is bold.
ALBERT.
Count Laniska has won Sophia's affections, and love is
a power that cannot be controlled.
SCENE!.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 257
WEDGEWOOD.
Veritably odd !
ALBERT.
You are on your way to the factory have you free
admission for yourself and friends?
WEDGEWOOD.
Indubitably.
ALBERT.
Then we will, with your permission, visit it together.
(Aside.) In this disguise, and under the name of Wor-
rendorf, I may pass unnoticed.
(Re-enter HANS, with trunks, c&c., and GERTRUDE.)
WEDGEWOOD.
It is growing late. After the fatigues of the journey,,
I need repose.
ALBERT.
And so do I. Good-night !
WEDGEWOOD.
Good-night ! [Exit ALBERT ; GERTRUDE takes a lighted
candle from the table, and shows the way / WEDGEWOOD
takes a light.'] Do you rise early, friend ?
HANS.
No, mynheer; but mine vife does
WEDGEWOOD.
Then tell your wife to knock at my door early in the
morning.
258 THE MAID OF SAXON T : [ACT L
HANS (eying him and looking suspiciously?)
So ho ! I smoJ^e you
WEDGEWOOD.
Then keep farther off with your confounded pipe, you
Dutch abomination !
HAXS (laying Ms finger on his nose.)
And I schmells a rat.
WEDGEWOOD (looking around?)
The devil you do ! Where ?
HANS.
So I vill knock at yourn door myself
WEDGEWOOD.
If it is convenient. (Exit HANS.) A pretty house I
have got into ! Smokes me ! smells a rat ! The filthy
Dutchman ! [Exit.
SCENE II.
An open cut wood near Berlin. Tents in the distance.
A military outpost. Enter HAROLD, Corporal and a
party of Soldiers, in military undress.
SONG.
The life for me is a soldier's life !
With that what glories come !
The notes of the spirit-stirring fife,
The roll of the battle-drum ;
SCENE II.] OR, WHO'S T II E TRAIT R ?
The brilliant array, the bearing high,
The plumed warriors' tramp ;
The streaming banners that flout the sky,
The gleaming pomp of the camp.
CHORUS.
A soldier's life is the life for me !
With that what glories come !
The notes of the spirit-stirring fife,
The roll of the battle-drum !
HAROLD.
So, corporal, at last we are to have a muster of the
combined forces of the kingdom.
CORPORAL.
Yes, the king is never so happy as when he has all his
children, as he calls us, about him.
HAROLD.
And plaguy good care he takes of his children ! He
looks after our domestic as well as our public interests !
It was a strange whim in old Fritz to offer each, of his
soldiers one of the factory-girls for a wife !
CORPORAL.
I wonder the old hero does not marry some of them
himself.
HAROLD.
He would rather look after his soldiers than meddle
with the fancies of the women and at his age too !
200 T U E MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr I.
CORPOUAJL.
Nonsense ! The king is a boy a mere boy of sev-
enty ! But he does meddle with the women sometimes.
HAROLD.
Say you so ?
CORPORAL.
Ay, and old ones too. It was but the other day that
he pensioned a poor widow, whose only son fell in a skir-
mish at his side. Heaven bless his old cocked hat !
HAROLD.
Yet is it not singular that one so mindful of the rights
of old women should compel the young ones to toil as
they do in the factory ?
CORPORAL.
Tush, tush, man! that's none of your concern, nor
mine. What have we to do with state affairs ?
HAROLD.
Eight, corporal; and it's not worth while for us to
trouble our heads about other people's business.
CORPORAL.
You're a sensible fellow
HAROLD.
Right again ; and I would return the compliment if
you did not wear such a flashy watch-riband (looks at it.}
CORPORAL.
That's personal!
SCENE II.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 2G1
HAEOLD.
I mean it to be so. "What the devil do you wear it
for?
COBPOEAL.
To gratify a whim. I like this riband. It was a pres-
ent from an old sweetheart of mine. Look what -a jaunty
air it gives one! and where 's the harm of keeping up
appearances?
HAEOLD.
What silly vanity ! But let me give you a piece of
advice : beware of the scrutiny of the king he has an
eye like a hawk, old as he is ; and if he should happen
to spy your watch-riband
COEPOEAL.
Pooh, pooh! he would not notice such a trifle. But
who comes yonder? That Hungarian Karl. Let's make
way for him. He's a fellow I don't fancy. What a
man to woo and win Sophia Mansfield !
HAEOLD.
He '11 never win her, woo her as he may. Count La-
niska will look to that.
[HAEOLD, Corporal and party retire into tents.
(Enter KAEL, in great agitation?)
262 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr L
SONG KARL.
Confusion ! Again, rejected
By the maid I fondly love !
Illusion! In soul dejected!
Jealous fears my bosom move.
Dear Sophia! Hope's deceiver!
Whom I love ; but love in vain !
Can I to my rival leave her?
No the thought distracts my brain !
Love revenge ! Oh, how I falter !
Passion's throes unman me quite :
i
Now he leads her to the altar
How I tremble at the sight !
Hold, tormentors ! cease to tear me !
All in vain I gasp for breath !
Hated rival scorn I bear thee
Which can only end in death !
(HAROLD advances.)
HAROLD.
Karl, what ails you ?
KARL (aside.)
Observed ! ( To HAROLD.) An infirmity I Ve had from
my youth upward. I shall be better presently.
HAROLD.
You tremble like one with the ague !
SCENE II.] OR, WHO'S THE TEA I TO II? 2C3
KAEL.
We Hungarians liave not your tougli constitution, com-
rade : besides, the weather is chilly it freezes me to the
bone.
HAROLD.
It's the weather within, Karl. Repair to the factory,
and sun yourself in the bright eyes of Sophia Mansfield !
That will warm you, especially if Count Laniska happens
to be by to stir up the fire of your jealousy eh?
KARL.
You have a sharp wit, which I lack, comrade.
HAROLD (sarcastically.)
And I've another thing which you lack comrade.
KARL.
What may that be ?
HAROLD.
A clear conscience, my old boy !
\Exii HAROLD into tent.
KARL.
Does he suspect? No sleeping and waking I have
concealed this (his arm) damning evidence of my guilt.
The mark of Cain I bear about me is known to none, and
the secret dies with me. For that young Pole, Sophia
scorns me; but let him beware! My revenge, though
slow, is sure !
(KARL turns to go j but perceiving Count LANISKA advan-
cing, he retires into a tent. Enter LANISKA, who no-
tices XARL in the distance)
201 THE MAID F S A X O X Y : [Acr L
SONG LANISKA.
When I behold that lowering brow,
"Which indicates the mind within,
I marvel much that woman's vow
A man like that could ever win!
Yet it is said, in rustic bower,
(The fable I have often heard)
A serpent has mysterious power
To captivate a timid bird.
This precept then I sadly trace
That love's a fluttering thing of air;
And yonder lurks the viper base,
Who would my gentle bird ensnare !
'T was in the shades of Eden's bower
This fascination had its birth,
And even there possessed the power
To lure the paragon of earth !
(At the conclusion of the song, KAJRL is about to retire.
LANISKA addresses Mm.)
COUNT.
Come hither, Karl.
KARL.
I wait upon your leisure, count.
COUNT.
I would have some words with you.
SCENE II.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 2G5
KARL.
You may not relish tlifi frankness of my manner.
COUNT.
Indeed !
KARL.
Look you. Count Laniska ; I am a plain, blunt, straight-
forward, rough-spoken fellow, and a soldier like yourself.
I know my rights ; and knowing, will maintain them. It
was by the king's permission and authority that I chose
Sophia Mansfield for my bride
COUNT.
She has rejected you.
KARL.
What has that to do with the matter? "Women are
often perverse, and not always the best judges of their
own welfare ; and you know she must be mine
COUNT.
Must?
KAEL.
Yes, must. I have the king's promise, and Frederick
was never known to break his word.
COUNT.
You surely would not marry her against her will ?
KAEL.
"Why "not? Sophia is the only woman I ever loved:
and now that I have her sure, think you I will resign
her?
206 THE MAID OF S A T X Y : [Acr L
COUNT.
And think you the king will force an angel into the
arms of a monster? He cannot be so great a tyrant
KARL.
Tyrant !
COUNT.
Yes. Man was created to cherish woman, not to op-
press her ; and he is the worst of tyrants who would
injure that sex whom Heaven ordains it his duty to pro-
tect.
KAKL.
Apply you this to the king?
COUNT.
To the king, or to any he in Christendom, who would
use his power to oppress the unfortunate ! But come, sir,
we will not dispute about a hasty word we have higher
duties to perform.
KAEL.
True, count; we oppose our weapons to the enemies
of our country, not the bosoms of our friends. I say our
country ; for, although you were born in Poland, and I
in Hungary, Frederick has made Prussia almost as dear
to us as our native land, tyrant though he may be. But
we will not quarrel about a single captive, when the king
has placed so many at the disposal of those who fight his
battles. [Trumpet sounds without.
SCENE II.] R , AY II ' S T II E T R A I T R ? 26 T
(Enter HAEOLD -with despatches?)
HAROLD (to COUNT.)
Despatches from the king. (Aside.} And a letter from
Sophia Mansfield. [Exit.
(The Count receives and examines dcspo.tcli.es / kisses SO-
PHIA'S letter, and puts it into Ids l>osom. KARL does
not notice it.}
DUET COUNT AND KARL.
'Tis a soldier's rigid duty
Orders strictly to obey ;
Let not, then, the smile of beauty
Lure us from the camp away.
In our country's cause united,
Gallantly we '11 take the field ;
But, the victory won, delighted
Singly to the fair we yield !
Soldiers who have ne'er retreated,
Beauty's tear will sure beguile ;
Hearts that armies ne'er defeated,
Love can conquer with a smile.
"Who would strive to live in story,
Did not woman's hand prepare
Amaranthine wreaths of glory
"Which the valiant proudly wear !
[Exit the Count. KARL follows, menacing him.
268 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr L
SCENE III.
An apartment in the Chateau of the Countess. Enter
the Countess and FREDERICA.
COUNTESS.
Tour morning ride, Frederica, was full of romance
the horse of your groom, you say, took fright
FKEDEKICA.
Yes, dear mother, and darted off at a racing pace ; my
own also became unmanageable, and I lost my presence
of mind. I should have been thrown, if not killed, had
not a gentleman rushed to my assistance.
COUNTESS.
"Who was he ?
FKEDEKICA.
I do not know.
COUNTESS.
"Was he alone ?
FREDERICA.
There was an elderly person with him, who seemed to
be a foreigner.
COUNTESS.
But he was young, of course ?
FREDERICA.
Yes, mother, and handsome as an Adonis.
SCENE III.] OR, WHO'S THE T R A I T K ? 269
COUNTESS.
Yon have not fallen in love with this stranger, surely?
You are not old enough, and this is only your first sea-
son, Frederica.
FEEDEEICA.
Love has all seasons for his own, dear mother. Listen !
SONG* FEEDEEICA.
The spring-time of love is both happy and gay,
For Joy sprinkles blossoms and balm in our way ;
The sky, earth and ocean in beauty repose,
And all the bright future is couleur de rose.
The summer of love is the bloom of the heart,
When hill, grove and valley their music impart ;
And the pure glow of heaven is seen in fond eyes,
As lakes show the rainbow that's hung in the skies !
The autumn of love is the season of cheer
Life's mild Indian summer, the smile of the year
"Which comes when the golden-ripe harvest is stored,
And yields its own blessings, repose and reward.
The winter of love is the beam that we win,
While the storm howls without, from the sunshine within.
Love's reign is eternal the heart is his throne,
And he has all seasons of life for his own.
* This song was not written for the opera ; but was introduced by the
composer
270 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr I.
COUNTESS.
Silly, thoughtless girl ! What strangers are these
coming up the avenue ?
FREDERICA (looTcing out.}
As I live, the elderly person I told you of, and the
young gentleman who risked his life to save mine !
(Enter WEDGEWOOD and ALBERT.)
WEDGEWOOD.
Have I the honour of addressing the Countess Laniska ?
(Aside.) Flounces, frills, filagrees and furbetows, but she 's
superlatively odd !
COUNTESS.
I am the countess, sir.
WEDGEWOOD (presenting letters.)
Will your ladyship be pleased to receive these letters
of introduction if quite convenient?
COUNTESS -(receiving letters, and looking at them.)
Mr. Wedgewood, from Esturia and London; and
WEDGEWOOD (introducing ALBERT.)
Mr. Albert Worrendorf.
COUNTESS (introducing FREDERICA.)
My daughter Frederica.
ALBERT (aside.)
The angel we met by accident this morning !
WEDGEWOOD (aside.)
Seraphically odd !
SCEXE III] OR, W II O 'S Til E TRAITOR? 271
FREDEEICA (to ALBERT.)
We have seen each other before, Mr. Worrendorf.
ALBERT.
To my great happiness, madam.
(ALBERT and FREDERIC A converse apart.)
COUNTESS (to WEDGEWOOD.)
It was very kind in my correspondent, Mr. Wedge-
wood, to introduce a gentleman of your celebrity to my
chateau.
WEDGEWOOD.
You do me honour, madam. We Englishmen are plain-
spoken people. We are not unlike our earthenware
delf and common clay mixed together. If our outsides
are sometimes rough, all within is smooth and polished
as the best of work. It is the purest spirit, which, like
the finest china, lets the light shine through it. (Aside.)
Not a bad compliment to myself, and metaphorically odd !
COUNTESS.
Your reply reminds me of the object of your visit.
The Prussians are very proud of the manufactory which
has claimed the attention of the king.
WEDGEWOOD.
Oh, how I long to see the great Frederick !
COUNTESS.
"ou will like him, I am confident.
272 THE M A I D OF S A X X Y : [Acr I.
WEDGEWOOD.
I don't know that. I don't at all fancy his edict.
"What ! marry a parcel of handsome, innocent, industri-
ous girls to his great whiskered horse-guards, whether
they will or no? It's a piece of moral turpitude an
insult to common sense and infamously odd
FEEDEBICA (advancing.)
Have a care, Mr. "Wedge wood have a care how you
talk about the king. He possesses a sort of magical ubi-
quity and is here, there and everywhere at the same
moment.
WEDGEWOOD.
How does he manage that?
FEEDEEICA.
He wanders about in secrecy and disguise enters all
kinds of mansions and often overhears conversations
that were never intended for the court. By this means,
it is said, he gathers information from every nook and
corner of his kingdom.
WEDGEWOOD.
Strange kind of hocus-pocus work for a monarch !
Peri pate tically odd !
ALBEET.
I have been told that he knows more of the character
and condition of his subjects and soldiers than they do
themselves.
SCENE III.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 273
COUNTESS.
And lie never knows of a wrong done among his peo-
ple that he does not instantly redress though it often
puzzles them to learn how he arrives at his knowledge
of the facts. Many think him a wizard.
WEDGEWOOD.
And not without reason, madam. Xever before have
I heard of such a compound of sagacity, courage and
eccentricity. Oh, I am all in a glow to see and converse
with the jolly old boy !
(Enter Count LANISKA.)
COUNTESS (introducing him.)
My son, the Count Laniska, will present you to his
majesty.
WEDGEWOOD (bowing to COUNT.)
If it is convenient. (Aside.} Most martially and uni-
formly odd ! (To LANISKA.) But, first, I should like to
have a glimpse at the factory.
COUNT.
I shall be happy to show it to you. There is one ex-
traordinary subject connected with it, that will surprise
you both a young girl of singular talent and beauty
FREDEKICA.
Ah, brother ! upon your favourite theme again. That
young girl occupies more of your thoughts than all the
porcelain in these dominions.
274 THE MAID OF SAXOXY: [Acr I
ALBERT (aside.)
Poor Sophia !
FREDERICA (observing that the Count looks thoughtful.)
"Why, what's the matter with you, brother?
WEDGEWOOD.
He is no doubt studying the mixture of different kinds
of clay, and contriving a furnace that will not destroy it
by too much heat. Ingeniously odd !
COUNT.
You are mistaken, sir. I was thinking at what time I
should have the pleasure of waiting upon you.
WEDGEWOOD.
I will be at your service as soon as I have had time to
adjust my outward and refresh my inward man. Neces-
sarily odd ! (Seeing the Countess about to retire.) Mad-
am, allow me (takes her hand) If it is convenient.
[Exit WEDGEWOOD and Countess.
FREDEKICA (to COUNT.)
Now, brother, that the countess has retired, pray fa-
vour us with your confidence. You need not mind Mr.
"Worrendorf I have told him all about Sophia Mans-
field. I love that poor girl myself, not less for her mis-
fortunes than her genius.
ALBERT.
I love her too
III] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 275
FREDERICA (aside.)
Oh, dear ! what 's the matter with me ? My head turns
round I am ready to drop !
COUNT (with emotion!)
You love her ! Wherefore ?
ALBERT.
She is my countrywoman, and for that I love her.
FREDERICA (recovering.)
Well, gentlemen, I must say this is very ungallant in
you both to be praising one lady so highly when there is
another in the room. (Aside.) Oh, dear me, how near I
came betraying myself!
ALBERT.
/
Your pardon, my dear madam. When I look at you,
I almost forget there is another woman in the world.
(Kisses FREDERICA'S hand, who turns away in evident
confusion.) But for the present I must leave you, to join
Mr. Wedgewood. [Exit.
COUNT (noticing them.)
(Aside.) So, so, Frederica fairly caught, I perceive!
(To FREDERICA.) Ah, sister, sister ! as in all things else,
there is a destiny in love.
DUET - LANISKA A5O) FREDERICA.
From my fate there 's no retreating
Love commands, and I obey ;
How with joy my heart is beating
At the fortunes of to-day !
276 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr L
Life is filled with strange romances
Love is blind, the poets say ;
When he comes unsought, the chance is
Of his own accord he '11 stay.
Love can ne'er be forced to tarry ;
Chain him he'll the bonds remove :
Paired, not matched, too many marry
All should wed alone for love.
Let him on the bridal-even
Trim his lamp with constant ray ;
And the flame will light to heaven,
When the world shall fade away !
[Exeunt.
SCENE IV.
The whole depth of the stage is made use of in this scene,
which represents an open country. A Camp and Sol-
diers at a distance. Music. Enter HANS, GERTRUDE
and Peasantry : Lads and Lasses dancing.
CHORUS OF PEASANTS.
Lads and lasses, trip away
To the cheerful roundelay !
At the sound of tambourine,
Care is banished from the scene,
SCENE IV.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 277
And a happy train we bound,
To the pipe and tabour's sound.
Merrily, merrily, trip away,
"I is a nation's holiday !
Merrily, merrily, merrilie,
Bound with spirits light and free !
Let's be jocund while we may ;
And dance dance dance
And dance the happy hours away !
When the gleaming line shall come,
To the sound of trump and drum ;
Headed by advancing steeds,
Whom the king in person leads
Let us hail him in his state,
For the king's both good and great!
Merrily, merrily, trip away,
'Tis a nation's holiday !
Merrily, merrily, merrilie,
Bound with spirits light and free !
Let's be jocund now we may,
And dance dance dance
And dance the happy hours away !
(Immediately after chorus, a grand march is commenced
in the distance, which lecomes more and more distinct
as the troops advance. The Peasants form in groups.
HANS speaks during the first part of the march.)
278 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Aor L
HANS.
Here we are, Gertrude, many miles from our own vil-
lage and all for vat? To please you '(aside] and to
shell a few colours to der artishes, vich I pring along mit
me for der purpose : but I need not tell her dat. Here,
stand aside, and don't be looking after de sholders !
(GERTRUDE and HANS stand aside. Grand march. En-
ter a corps of Grenadiers and other troops, who form
on the right of the stage. Soil of drums. The troops
present arms. Enter FREDERICK, in a furious passion,
followed by general and staff Officers, and Count LA-
NISKA. The King acknowledges the salute, lifts his
hat) and puts it on again furiously. HAROLD and
Corporal are in the ranks of the Grenadiers. Through-
out the scene the King speaks hurriedly?)
KING.
General !
FIRST GENERAL.
Your Majesty. .
KING.
How comes it there is such a lack of discipline in your
division? Disband that regiment at once, and draft a
few of the men from the right wing into other regiments
ordered for immediate service ! The sooner they are shot
the better !
FIRST GENERAL.
Yes, sire. \Exit.
Bonos IV.] OR, WHO'S THE T 11 A I T IU 279
KING.
Generals most of you have served the greater part
of your lives with me. We have grown gray-headed in
the service of our country, and we therefore know best
ourselves the dangers, difficulties and glory in which we
have shared. While we maintain the discipline of the
army, we may defy any power that Europe can march
against us relax that, and we become an easy prey to
the spoiler.
SECOND GENERAL.
Your majesty shall have no cause of complaint in fu-
ture.
KING.
Make sure of that! Soldiers, I rely in my operations
entirely upon your well-known zeal in my service, and I
shall acknowledge it with gratitude as long as I live ;
but at the same time I require of you that you look upon
it as your most sacred duty to show kindness and mercy
to all prisoners that the fortunes of war may throw in
your power.
SECOND GENERAL.
That duty, sire, you have taught us all our lives.
KING (taking snuff '.)
Good! Have any of my grenadiers anything to say
to me before the parade is dismissed ?
HAROLD (recovering arms.)
Your Majesty!
280 THE MAID OF SAXOXY: [Acr L
KING.
Speak out, Harold.
HAROLD.
The grenadiers have noticed with deep regret that you
fatigue yourself of late too much with the cares of the
army. We protest against it
Zounds and fury! Here's rebellion! You protest
against it ?
HAROLD (bluntly!)
"We do. You are getting to be an old man a very
old man and are too much afoot.
KING.
I can do as I like about it, I suppose ?
HAROLD.
Certainly not; and you will, therefore, in future, be
good enough to use your carriage more and your legs
less.
KING.
"What do the grenadiers fear f
HAROLD.
"We fear nothing but the loss of your health, the loss
of your life, or the loss of your favour, sire.
KING.
Don't you fear the loss of my temper at your bluntness
eh, old comrade?
HAROLD.
No, sire ; we know you like it.
SCENE IV.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 281
KING.
I do indeed. You are in the right, my brave com-
patriots for my advanced age and increasing infirmi-
ties admonish me that I shall be under the necessity of
following your advice. But on the day of battle, you
shall see me on horseback on horseback and in the
thickest of the fight ! (Crosses the stage, as a Burgomas-
ter enters, kneels and presents a petition.) "What have
we here ?
BURGOMASTER.
Sire the common council has imprisoned a citizen,
upon an accusation that he has sinned against heaven,
the king, and the right worshipful the common council.
We humbly beg to know what Your Majesty's pleasure
is with regard to the punishment of so unparalleled and
atrocious an offender?
KING.
If the prisoner has sinned against heaven, and is not a
fool or a madman, he will make his peace with it without
delay. That is a Power (talcing off his hat all the char-
acters make their obeisance) that kings themselves must
bow to in reverential awe. (Resumes his hat.)
BURGOMASTER.
But he has also sinned against your high and mighty
majesty
KING.
Tush, tush, man !
282 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr L
BURGOMASTER (profoundly!)
On my official veracity, sire !
KING.
"Well, well, for that I pardon him
BURGOMASTER.
And he has likewise sinned against the right worship-
ful the common council.
KING.
The reprobate !
BURGOMASTER.
It is most veritable. Your Majesty
KING.
Well, for that terrible and enormous offence, it becomes
my solemn duty to make an example of so abominable
a culprit, and to punish him in a most exemplary man-
ner. Therefore
BURGOMASTER.
Yes, Your Majesty
KING.
Send him to the castle of Spandau, to be imprisoned
BURGOMASTER.
i
Your Majesty
KING.
For at least
BURGOMASTER.
Sire
SCENE IV.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 283
KING.
Half an hour (Peasantry laugh f] and afterward he is
at liberty to go to the devil his own way ; and the right
worshipful the common council may go with him, if they
like!
(Exit Burgomaster. As he goes out, shrugging his shoul-
ders, all the Peasantry laugh, until checked l>y a look
from the King, who crosses the stage to the Grenadiers,
and addresses the Corporal who has his watch-riband
suspended.)
KING.
Corporal ! (He advances and recovers arms.)
CORPORAL.
Your Majesty !
KING.
I have often noticed you in the field. Tou are a brave
soldier and a prudent one too, to have saved enough
from your pay to buy yourself a watch.
HAROLD (aside to CORPORAL.)
You remember what I told you about a hawk's eye.
CORPORAL.
Brave I flatter myself I am ; but as to my watch, it is
of little signification.
KING (seizing and pulling out a bullet fastened to the
Corporal's watch-riband?)
Why, this is not a watch ! It's a bullet !
284: THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr I.
CORPORAL.
It's the only watch I have, Your Majesty ; but I have
not worn it entirely out of vanity
KING.
What have you worn it for, then ? It does not show
you the time of day !
CORPORAL.
No ; but it clearly shows me the death I am to die in
Your Majesty's service.
KING.
"Well said, my brave fellow ! And that you may like-
wise see the hour among the twelve in which you are to
die, I will give you my watch. Take it, and wear it for
my sake, corporal. (The King gives the Corporal his
watch.}
CORPORAL (with emotion}
It will also teach me that at any moment Your Majesty
may command my life.
HAROLD (enthusiastically}
And the lives of us all ! Long live the king !
(Flourish of drums. The King acknowledges the salute}
KING (to Grenadiers.)
You, my brave fellows, are my own guards. I can rely
upon you. There is no want of discipline here eh, Gen-
eral? Notwithstanding all my annoyances, I am the
happiest king in Christendom !
SCENE IV.] OR, WHO'S THE T 11 A I T R ? 285
CHOKUS.
(Grenadiers and all the Characters.)
All kail the king ! Long live the king !
Our hope in peace and war !
"With his renown let Prussia ring !
Hurrah ! hurrah ! hurrah !
He is the pillar of the state !
Our sword and buckler he !
Heaven give to Frederick the Great
Eternal victory !
(The Grenadiers cheer. The Officers close about the King.
Flourish and tableau. The act-drop descends on the
picture!)
END OF THE FIRST ACT.
286 THE MAID OF SAXON T: [Acr II.
ACT II.
SCENE I.
Discovered. The stage represents a large apartment with-
out the usual side-entrances. On the left hand is a
row of long, old-fashioned windows, with painting-
screens so arranged as to let the light fall obliquely
on the tables beneath at which the Factory-Girls are
seated, employed in painting various articles of porce-
lain. SOPHIA MANSFIELD is seated at the table nearest
the audience. On the right are separate tables, at
which Girls are employed mixing and grinding col-
ours. In the centre of the stage is a small platform,
on which a number of painted vases, ready for the
oven, are placed. EAEL is engaged in examining them.
At the rear of the stage is the entrance to the room
a large, open door on each side of which are rows
of shelves, filled with vases, bowls, plates, jars, mantel-
ornaments and the like, put there to dry. The whole
representing the painting-room of the Royal Porce-
lain-Factory. Through the doors the furnaces are
seen, on which the porcelain is placed to set the col-
SCENE I] OR, WHO'S T II E TRAITOR? 287
ours, and which several Workmen are attending. The
curtain rises slowly to the music.
CHORUS.
(German air.)
Home, home, home
Dear, lost home !
Though here we pine in slavery,
Our hearts are all in Saxony,
Our girlhood's happy home !
Land of the free and bold,
To hopeless bondage sold !
"While abject toil and fear
Enchain thy daughters here,
"We yearn for thee,
O Saxony !
For freedom, love and home !
(The Girls attempt to waltz to the music / l)ut, overcome
~by their feelings, they resume their tasks.)
SOLO SOPHIA.
Home, home, home
Dear, lost home !
Though cares oppress us fearfully,
We exiles carol cheerfully
Of girlhood's happy home !
288 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr JL
Beneath our native sky
The hours went swiftly by ;
While on a foreign soil,
Our youth consumes in toil !
"We yearn for thee,
O Saxony !
For freedom, love and home !
(The Girls attempt to waltz, as before, <&c.)
CHOEUS.
Home, home, home, &c.
(The "Workmen and the Girls resume their tasks.)
(Enter Count LANISKA, ALBERT, and WEDGEWOOD.)
WEDGEWOOD (looking around, and speaking enthusiasti-
cally as he enters?)
Admirable, upon my word ! Every department better
than the last, and this the best of all ! Never saw any-
thing like it. The colours brilliant the designs exquis-
itely classical "a place for everything, and everything
in its place I"
COUNT.
Whatever His Majesty constructs, whether a fortress
or a factory, is perfect in all its details.
WEDGEWOOD.
Yet look around you, and read your monarch's history
in the eyes of these prisoners of war. Observe that pic-
ture of melancholy (pointing to SOPHIA, who, during the
SCENE I] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 2S9
scene, has l>een leaning dejectedly on her hand IVARL
standing ly her side.} How reluctantly she pursues her
task ! Our English manufacturers work in quite another
manner, for they are free !
KARL.
And are free men or free women never indisposed ?
or do you Englishmen blame your king whenever any
of his subjects turn pale? The woman at whom you are
looking is evidently ill.
WEDGEWOOD.
Then fie upon your inhumanity for making a poor r
sick girl work when she seems scarcely able to hold up
her head ! (Aside.) I don't half like that fellow ! Yil-
lanously odd.
ALBERT (to SOPHIA.)
My poor girl, what is the matter with you ? The over-
seer says that since you came here, you have done noth-
ing worthy of your pencil. Yet this charming piece
(pointing to an ornament of her painting] which was
brought from Saxony, is of your design is it not?
SOPHIA.
ifes, sir, it was my misfortune to paint it. If the king
had never seen or liked it, I should now be
ALBERT.
In Saxony ; bnt forget that country, and you may be
happy in this.
290 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr IL
SOPHIA.
I cannot forget it! I cannot forget everybody that I
ever loved. Ask not a Saxon woman to forget her coun-
try!
ALBEKT.
Whom do you love in Saxony now?
SOPHIA.
"Whom do I not love in Saxony? I have a brother
there, whom I have not seen since childhood. He was
at college when I was carried off from the cottage in
which we both were born. He is ignorant of my fate.
(She regards ALBERT with great attention, and examines
Ms features minutely!)
ALBERT.
Why do you gaze upon me so intently ?
SOPHIA.
I know not why, sir ; but you seemed even now a dear
heart-cherished one, whom I have wished for long and
anxiously.
ALBERT.
Think me that one and trust me.
SOPHIA.
I will for there's a cherub nestling in my heart,
which whispers, " You are here to save me !" (ALBERT
leads her to her task, which she resumes in great dejec-
tion of spirits.)
SCENE I] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 291
WEDGEWOOD (to KARL).
Is that poor girl often thus ?
KAEL.
She sits as you see her, like one stupified, half the day.
WEDGEWOOD.
The cause of this if it is convenient?
KAEL.
She has fallen to the lot of a soldier (glancing at SO-
PHIA) who swears, if she delays another day to marry
him, that he will complain to the king.
COUNT (turning furiously upon KAEL.)
"Wretch ! (seizes him.}
KAEL (throwing him off.}
This insult will cost you dear! Your scorn for the
king's commands
COUNT (scornfully.}
I had forgotten. (Releases him} You are a mere in-
strument in the hands of a tyrant !
KARL (aside.}
That word again !
SOPHIA (running between them, and throwing herself at
the feet of LANISKA.)
Save me ! save me ! You can save me ! You are a
powerful lord, and can speak to the king ! Save me from
this detested marriage !
292 THE MAID OF S A X O X Y : [Acr IL
KAKL (aside to SOPHIA.)
Are you mad ?
COUNT (raising SOPHIA, who clings to him, and shrinks
from KAKL.)
I will do so, or perish in the attempt !
KAKL (aside.)
Ah ! say you so ? Then the king shall know his ene-
my and mine ! [Exit.
WEDGEWOOD (noticing KAKL go off?)
Whew! There's mischief brewing! If that Mack-
muzzled rascal is not hatching trouble for us all, I'll
never trust my seven senses again ! I wonder they per-
mit such a bear to go at large in a garden like this
he'll root up flowers as well as weeds. Dangerously
odd!
(Trumpet sounds without, and a l)uzz and hum as if of
(a distant crowd / the noise comes near the Factory?)
WEDGEWOOD.
"What 's afoot now, I- wonder ?
ALBERT.
Some new freak, no doubt, of this eccentric monarch.
(Noises.)
WEDGEWOOD (Looking out.)
The town is all astir (noise louder) humming and
buzzing like a hive of bees ! (Noise, and distant shouts)
SCENE I] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 293
And yonder comes a fussy little burgomaster, with a
proclamation, and a crowd of noisy citizens at bis heels
odd ! [Noise and shouts increase.
(SOPHIA and the other Girls and the "Workmen leave their
occupations, as if anxious to learn the cause of the
uproar. When the buzzing, huzzaing and noise reach,
the Factory, loud sound of the trumpet?)
BURGOMASTER (without?)
Make way there, good people make way there for
the royal herald ! (The Burgomaster bustles in with the
Herald the crowd following and surrounding him
noises?) Stand back (using his wand] stand back, you
idle, ragged tatterdemalions, and pay all due reverence
to the constituted authorities! (laughter) for know all
men by these presents (very pompously?) that I represent
the king ! (laughter?)
WEDGEWOOD.
"What a figure for the part ! (laughter.}
BURGOMASTER (smartly striking with his wand one who
laughs louder than the rest?)
Take that, and let it teach you better manners in fu-
ture, you scarecrow! Now draw near, good people,
and be dumb ! Lend me all your ears !
WEDGEWOOD.
You have ears enough already for any two-legged ani-
mal
294: THE MAID OF SAXONY: [ACT IL
BURGOMASTER.
While I, by virtue of my office as a magistrate, pub-
lish this important document! (SOPHIA conies forward?)
CITIZEN (eagerly.)
Now for it!
BURGOMASTER (hitting him smartly over the head.)
You will, will you? Hish! This paper is big with
information to the whole realm ; but more especially to
the daughters of Saxony. (SOPHIA and the Girls of the
Factory, by looks and actions, evince great interest in the
reading of the paper.)
BURGOMASTER.
Hish ! (To Herald.) Now proceed in regular order,
and according to ancient form and usage, to read the
royal proclamation ! Hish ! (Hands paper to Herald.)
HERALD (reads)
"By the grace of God, we, Frederick the Second, King
of Prussia, hereby make known that we will give free-
dom "
SOPHIA (eagerly aside.)
Freedom ? (Listens with anxiety.)
HERALD.
"And a reward of five hundred crowns to the Artist
who shall produce the most beautifully-designed and
highly-finished enamelled porcelain vase of Berlin chi-
na} and permit her to marry whomsoever she shall think
proper"
SCENE L] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 295
SOPHIA (aside and joyfully?)
Hear I aright ? (The Girls of the Factory show great
joy at this?)
HERALD.
" The Artist's name shall be inscribed upon the vase,
which shall be called ' The Prussian Vase? "
SOPHIA (aside.}
Oh, happy, happy news !
HERALD.
"Signed at the Sans Souci
"BY THE KING."
OMNES.
Hu z z a a h a a a a ! (Amid the shouts
and general joy of the Girls, the Burgomaster bustles out y
using his wand frequently, and speaking all the while /
the Herald following, and the Citizens buzzing and huz-
zaing as before.} Silence, you nondescript villains!
Silence, I say ! You stun me with your uproar ! (Loud
shout. Passionately} Oh, shut your ugly mugs ! (Strikes
them}
WEDGEWOOD.
Mugs ! I like that. He 's in the crockery-trade, like
myself.
SOPHIA (with joy.}
This proclamation has animated me with new life and
energy. I feel like one inspired !
296 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [ACT U
COUNT.
"What mean you ?
SOPHIA.
To become a competitor for the prize.
ALBERT.
You will have many opponents.
SOPHIA.
I heed them not.
WEDGEWOOD.
All will be zeal throughout the manufactory.
SOPHIA.
So much the greater need for my perseverance.
ALBERT.
Some will be excited with the hope of gaining their
liberty.
SOPHIA.
Oh, blessed hope !
WEDGEWOOD.
Some stimulated by the crowns. "Not at all odd.
It would be odd if they were not !
SOPHIA.
But none have so strong a motive for exertion as I
have.
COUNT (with enthusiasm.}
Nobly resolved ! I will assist you with every faculty
I possess.
SCENE I.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 297
ALBEET (with the same feeling?)
And I!
WEDGEWOOD (with the same.}
And all! If it is convenient.
SOPHIA (joyfully)
Then doubt not my success. (Exit LAXISKA, ALBERT
and WEDGEWOOD.) Oh, how my heart bounds with the
thoughts of once more seeing Saxony ! Its mountains,
torrents, vineyards, are all before me now ! And then
our native songs ! They steal into my heart and melt it.
SONG AXD CHOKUS.
(German air)
SOPHIA AND FACTOBY-GIELS.
Sky, stream, moorland and mountain,
Tree, cot, spire and" dome,
Breeze, bird, vineyard and fountain,
Kindred, friends, country and home!
Home, home, home, home !
These are the blessings of home !
(The Factory-G-irls now waltz cheerfully to the music)
Hope how fondly I cherish,
Dear land, to see thee once more !
O Fate ! let me not perish
Far from my own native shore !
298 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr II.
Home, home, home, home !
Saxony, Liberty's home !
(The Girls waltz as before,
Those who freedom inherit,
Bow not to Tyranny's throne ;
Then, friends, in a kind spirit,
Judge of my love by your own.
Home, home, home, home !
The land of the heart is our home !
(They all waltz with great spirit until the scene closes.)
SCENE II.
A Street in Berlin. Enter FREDERICK in a cloak KAKL
following.
KING.
Those who have the command of motives, and know
their power, have also the command of all that the
arts, or what is called a genius for the arts, can produce.
The human mind and human ingenuity are much the
same in Italy, England and Prussia. Then why should
not we have a Prussian as well as a "Wedgewood or a
Barbarini vase? We shall see. I do not understand
mon metier de roi, if I cannot call forth talents where I
SCENE II.] OR, WHO'S T II E TRAITOR? 299
know them to exist. (To KARL.) And so the count de-
nounced me for a tyrant, did he, Karl?
KAKL.
He did, Your Majesty.
KING.
He 's a mere stripling ; and I permit boys and fools to
speak of me as they list. But I am no tyrant, Karl!
He might have spared me that. (Musingly.} Tyrant!
KARL (aside.}
It rankles deeply.
KING (recovering from Ms meditation}
Youth and inexperience to say nothing of love
pshaw! which is the root of all folly shall be his
apology this time : but let him beware how he offends
again
KAKL (aside}
It moves him as I intended.
KING.
No, I am no tyrant. I should not be branded with
such a title !
KAEL (startled}
Branded, Your Majesty?
KING.
"What has happened, Karl ? You are as pale as ashes 1
What mystery is here ? I am to be trusted.
300 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [ ACT II.
KAKL.
Your Majesty was ever kind ; and if I might
KING.
Might! You may. Speak freely to your sovereign
your friend and tell me what it is that weighs upon
your mind.
SONG KAKL.
Dared these lips my sad story impart,
What relief it would give to my heart !
Though the scenes of past years, as they rise,
Bring the dews of remorse to my eyes,
Yet, oh hear me, and ever conceal
What in agony now I reveal !
KING.
Speak freely, Karl
KAKL.
And behold, while I throw off the mask !
Ah, no, no, no, no, no
I shrink in despair from the task !
In the page of my life there appears
A sad passage that's written in tears !
Could but that be erased, I would give
All the remnant of days I may live :
Yet the cause of the cloud on my brow
I have never disclosed until now
SCENE II.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 301
KIXG.
Say on, Karl
KARL.
Here behold ! It is branded in flame !
Ah, no, no, no, no, no
I shrink in despair from my shame !
[KARL rushes out.
KING.
There is a mystery about that fellow that I cannot un-
derstand. "Whom have we here ? Oh, the English trav-
eller who is in such a good humour with my manufac-
tory, and who has such strange notions respecting me.
Good good ! {Draws his cloak about him and retires.
(Enter WEDGE\VOOD.)
WEDGEWOOD.
I begin to perceive that I shall get into some confound-
ed scrape if I stay here much longer, and so will my
young friend Mr. Worrendorf, who has made me his con-
fidant : but mum 's the word ! (Seeing the King, who is
in the act of taking snuff.} Ah, use snuff, my old boy?
Odd ! Thank you for a pinch. (Takes a pinch sans cere-
monie, and without the King's consent. FREDERICK shuts
the box angrily. WEDGEWOOD starts ~back in astonishment.
Aside} Wonder who the old-fashioned brown jug can
be ! I'll take him by the handle and pour him out, and
see what's in him.
302 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [ ACT II.
KING.
Like the snuff?
WEDGEWOOD.
Yes (snuffs] it's decent blackguard (snuffs} quite
decent.
KING.
Taste it again.
WEDGEWOOD.
Don't care if I do. (Helps himself]
KING.
Perhaps you will also do me the favour to accept the
box?
WEDGEWOOD (taking the lox]
If it is convenient. What am I to infer from this ?
KING.
That you and I cannot take snuff out of the same box.
My box is not large enough for two.
WEDGEWOOD (astonished]
You don't say so! "Not large enough for two"?
(Looks at the lox] Damn me if I don't think it large
enough for a dozen, unless they took snuff with a shovel !
(Aside] "Who in the name of all that's magnanimous can
this old three-cornered cocked-hatted cockolorum be ?
KING.
You were overheard to say but now that you would
like to see the king?
SCENE II. OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR?
WEDGEWOOD.
Overheard ? (Aside.) Ah, that 's the way they do every-
thing here. A man can't sneeze without some one of
the four winds of heaven reporting it to His Majesty!
There is no such thing as a secret in the whole kingdom !
How do the women get along, I wonder ? (To FREDER-
ICK.) " Like to see the king ?" Certainly I should.
KING.
That box will procure you an audience. Present it at
the palace.
WEDGEWOOD.
Look you here, my jolly old cock, none of your jokes
none of your tricks upon travellers, if you please.
What do you mean?
KING.
That I am appreciated at court.
WEDGEWOOD (aside.)
Oh, there 's no standing this ! (To FREDERICK.) Do you
intend to say that you are personally acquainted with
Frederick the Great ?
KING.
I know him, I believe, better than any subject in his
realm. He is my most intimate friend.
WEDGEWOOD.
Well, then, if that be the case, all that I have to say
is, that he is not over and above nice in the choice of his
companions. What an odd old file !
304 THE MAID OF S A X X Y : [Acr IL
KING (angrily?)
Look you here, Mr. Wedgewood
WEDGEWOOD (stammering.')
"We-d-g-e-w-o-o-d !
KING.
Yes I know you well enough. You are an English-
man by birth- -a crockery-merchant by trade a gentle-
man from inclination and an odd sort of character from
habit. Without knowing anything more about it than
the man in the moon, you have condemned the policy
of the king, who is aware of all you have said and done
since your arrival in Prussia.
WEDGEWOOD (alarmed?)
Oh, I'll get out of this infernal country as fast as my
legs can carry me ! The king is all ears, like a field of
corn ; and all eyes, like a potato-patch !
KING.
What alarms you ?
WEDGEWOOD.
Everything. It's all over with me! I'm an earthen
teapot with the spout knocked off! Suspiciously odd!
KING.
You, sir, like too many others, are entirely mistaken
in the character of Frederick. You will understand him
better when we meet again (going.*)
SCENE IL] OR, WHO'S THE T R A I T R ? 305
WEDGEWOOD.
But, before you go, pray receive your box again ! (the
King looks at him sternly WEDGEWOOD greatly alarmed}
If it is convenient !
KING.
Not now. "When next we confer, remember me.
Farewell ! [Exit.
WEDGEWOOD.
.Remember you ? I think I shall. Once seen, never
forgotten. What a deep old screw !
(Enter HAROLD.)
IIAEOLD.
The king commands your presence at the chateau of
the countess.
WEDGEWOOD.
The devil he does! (Looks at the box.) What's here?
As I live, the royal arms ! (Conceals the box from HAR-
OLD.) Oh, the thing's plain enough. That fellow has
stolen this box ; and, for fear of being found out, he has
put it off on me! It's all up! I've been bamboozled
by that nefarious old monster of iniquity ! But I '11 after
him straight, and have him jugged. If I don't, they'll
make no bones si. jugging me! If it is convenient.
[Exit in a flurry.
HAEOLD.
How he trembles ! He 's frightened out of his senses !
306 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr IL
Fear? What is it? A word not to be found in the
articles of war a soldier's only vocabulary.
SONG HAROLD.
Fiery Mars, thy votary hear !
"Weave for me a wreath of glory !
When I rest upon my bier,
Let my memory live in story !
Aid my sword in time of war !
In iny country's cause I wield it
Only with the breath I draw,
Will I to the foeman yield it!
[Exit.
SCENE III.
SOPHIA MANSFIELD'S apartments in the Porcelain-Factory.
Enter SOPHIA.
SOPHIA.
'Tis done. My vase is finished, and in the possession
of the overseer. How is it with me ? Although my for-
tunes are suspended by a single thread, an unaccustomed
buoyancy pervades my bosom. Are these emotions pre-
cursors of victory, or has the love of Laniska given me
a new existence, and tinged the world once more with
hues of paradise ? How new and fresh and strange are
SCENE III.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 307
all things here about my heart! This is his gift a
simple flower ! He said it is an emblem of love. It is
not so. Love does not perish thus! Love cannot be a
flower.
SONG SOPHIA.
Ah ! Love is not a garden-flower,
That shoots from out the cultured earth ;
That needs the sunbeam and the shower,
Before it wakens into birth :
It owns a richer soil and seed,
And woman's heart supplies them both,
Where it will spring, without a weed.
Consummate in its growth.
These leaves will perish when away
From either genial sun or shower ;
Not so will wither and decay
Celestial Love's perennial flower.
Tis our companion countless miles,
Through weal or wo in after-years ;
And though it flourishes in smiles,
It blooms as fresh in tears !
(Enter FBEDEKICA.)
FKEDEKICA.
My dear Sophia, I am overjoyed to learn that you
have completed your vase.
308 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr II.
SOPHIA.
Thanks, dear madam. Is it true that the works of the
different competitors are to be exhibited at the fete of
the countess, and that the decision is to be there made?
FKEDERICA.
It is and the countess insists upon your being pres-
ent.
SOPHIA.
I am an unknown girl, madam ; and if I decline the
invitation, I beseech you take it not amiss.
FREDERICA.
But I will take it amiss, and so will the count and
countess, whose messenger I am, and who insisted upon
my bringing you to the chateau at once.
SOPHIA.
"Well, madam, since you will have it so
FREDERICA.
Oh, you '11 be delighted. Only think of the concentra-
ted attractions of " the court, the camp, the grove /" Oh,
they're too much for any mortal woman to withstand!
DUET SOPHIA AND FREDERICA.
The king, the princes of the court,
With lords and ladies bright,
Will in their dazzling state resort
To this grand fete to-night:
\
SCENE IV.] OR, W II 'S THE TRAITOR? 309
The merry-hearted and the proud
"Will mingle in the glittering crowd,
"Who glide with Fashion's sparkling stream
Where one I love will shine supreme !
La ra la, la ra la, la la la, &e.
The cavaliers of Italy,
The gay gallants of France,
With Spain and England's chivalry,
Will join the merry dance.
The court of Love the camp of Mars,
Fair Prussian dames, " earth-treading stars,"
To music's strain will float in light,
Where one I love will beam to-night !
La ra la, la ra la, la la la, &c.
[Exit cheerfully.
SCENE IV.
Discovered. Grand Saloon in the Chateau of the Count-
ess LANISKA, arranged for a Fete. The scene opens
with dancing and waltzing ~by the Characters, and dis-
covers the King and retinue, Lords and Ladies of the
Court, foreign Ambassadors and Attaches, the Count-
ess LANISKA, ALBERT, WEDGEWOOD, KAKL, Girls of the
310 THE MAID OF SAXOSTY: [Acr II.
Factory, &c., dec., &c. The Characters are variously
grouped during the dance ; and while all are observ-
ing the King, who, with KARL at his side, is attentively
examining the Vases, which are placed on stands on
one side of the stage, the Count LANISKA enters, con-
ducting in SOPHIA and FKEDEEICA. After the dance,
the King speaks.
KING.
The hour has arrived which is to decide the fate of the
competitors. (All the Characters express ly their looks
and actions the utmost anxiety as to the result, and draw
near to the King.)
KARL (to KING.)
The inscription upon this vase is in the handwriting
of the Count Laniska.
KING.
'Tis well.
KAEL (aside.}
And it is his death-warrant !
KING.
Subjects and children : we have reason to be proud of
an art that redounds to the honour and glory of Prussia.
"Where all have deserved well, all shall be well remem-
bered. (The Girls of the factory manifest great joy at
these words, and turn to congratulate each other. SOPHIA
and LANISKA stand apart, and watch every action of the
SCENE IV.] OR, TV II ' 5 THE TRAITOR? 311
King, while the other Characters appear greatly inter-
ested for SOPHIA.) This vase, however, I select from the
rest, as the most beautiful of them all. (SOPHIA clasps
her hands in great agitation.} Let this be known to
after-ages as "THE PRUSSIAN VASE;" and let the name
here inscribed (looks at and points to the name on the
vase} be chronicled throughout these realms. (Takes SO-
PHIA by the hand} Sophia Mansfield is the artist, and
she is free ! (SOPHIA, overcome by her feelings, falls on
the bosom of FREDERICA.)
CHORUS.
Victoria ! victoria !
The Saxon maid is free !
Victoria! victoria! &c.
SOPHIA.
My heart will break with gratitude !
COUNT.
And mine with joy !
KARL (aside.}
It will be of brief duration.
KING (who has regarded SOPHIA with great interest}
Let the dance proceed.
(A merry dance and waltz by the Characters, at the ter-
mination of which a tableau is formed. The utmost
merriment and hilarity mark the action of the scene.
THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr IL
At the conclusion of the dance, the King, who has been
occupied in carefully examining the Vase, wipes it
with his handkerchief, which becomes stained with
the paint. KAKL draws his attention to the inscrip-
tion^
KARL.
Behold, my liege !
KING.
Ha! What words are these? (Reads.} "To Frederick
the Great Tyrant" Treachery ! (KAKL immediately
seizes the Vase, and carries it off, without the inscrip-
tion being seen by any but the King.) Break off the
sports !
COUNTESS (greatly astonished.}
"What means Your Gracious Majesty?
KING.
( Who has taken out his tablets, and written on them in
great haste does not regard her, and speaks furiously.
Let all the doors be closed! Such base ingratitude
shall not go unpunished ! Give over your mirth I Ho !
My guards ! (Drums immediately sound} My guards !
(Presto ! Enter HAKOLD, Corporal and Grenadiers in great
haste. The King hands HAROLD his orders, and rushes
out in a towering passion. Enter "WEDGEWOOD. All
the Guests are thrown into great confusion. He-enter
KAKL.)
SCENE IV.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 313
HAEOLD (pr
Count Laniska, stand forth !
COUNT.
What is your business with me, Harold ?
HAEOLD.
You are our prisoner.
03IXES.
Prisoner ?
KAEL (aside.)
Now I triumph !
COTJXT.
Under whose orders do you act ?
HAEOLD.
Those of the king.
OMXES.
The king!
HAEOLD.
Sophia Mansfield !
ALBERT.
What of her?
HAEOLD.
She must away with us to the castle of Spandau.
SOPHIA.
O Heaven, support me !
COTJOT (drawing his sword.)
Touch her at your peril, Harold !
814 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr IL
ALBERT.
This is madness! Give me your sword! (Wrests it
from him and gives it to HAROLD.) Of what are they
accused ?
HAKOLD.
Of ingratitude and treason !
OMNES.
Treason !
Finale.
COUNT.
Treason !
OMNES.
Treason !
COUNT.
It cannot be !
Of treason who accuses me ?
HAROLD.
The king himself! These orders read!
(Hands paper to Count.)
OMNES.
The king himself !
COUNT (looking at the papers.)
'Tis true indeed!
SOPHIA.
Oh, what a fearful change is here !
KARL (aside.)
I triumph now! my vengeance fear!
SCENE IV.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 315
HAKOLD.
Your prisoners, guards ! No more delay !
(SOPHIA and LANISKA are made prisoners?)
OMNES.
The king's commands let all obey !
COUNT AND SOPHIA.
"We must obey I
SOPHIA.
Oil, how my trusting heart is grieved!
COUNT.
Our royal master is deceived !
No traitor I ! My loyal heart
Spurns with disdain so base a part.
SOPHIA.
How vainly Fortune smiled on me !
SOPHIA AND COUNT.
Oh, give me death or liberty !
KAEL.
Tear them apart !
HAROLD AND GEENADIEES.
No more delay !
KARL.
To prison, hence !
OMNES.
To prison ?
316 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr II.
HAROLD AND GRENADIERS.
Hence !
OMNES.
Away ! away !
( As the Guards attempt to separate Count LANISKA and
SOPHIA, great confusion ensues, and the act-drop de-
scends.}
END OF THE SECOND ACT.
SCENE I.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 317
ACT III.
SCENE I.
The stage represents part of the Castle of Spandau, and
is arranged as follows : On the left, is a large rock
above which, in the distance, is the Tower. A large
grated door opens upon a platform, surrounded by
iron railings. Count LANISKA is discovered leaning
upon them. On the right, is an arched cell, with part
of the wall jutting from the side, behind which is a
secret door. Above this is a fine mew of an open
country, and a clear, blue, starlight sky. SOPHIA is
seated in the cell, at a table. The whole scene is so
managed that, while the Audience have a full view
of everything, the Prisoners, although they hear, can-
not see each other. Time, near midnight. The cur-
tain rises slowly to music.
DUET SOPHIA AXD COUNT.
SOPHIA.
This gloomy cell is rny abode at last ;
The sole reward for all my perils past.
318 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Aer IIL
'Tis strange that love within the breast should dwell,
"When hope, dejected, bids the heart farewell!
COUNT.
"What sounds are these ? 'No human form is near,
And yet that well-known voice I faintly hear !
Twas sure the fancied music of the mind,
Whose breathings mingled with the midnight wind.
BOTH.
Yes! T is lost! 'Tis gone! Hark! it comes again,
Like distant echoes of a melting strain :
In melody { %g ] spirit floats around !
That voice! These walls are vocal with the sound.
I hear its music near me still ! 'Tis there !
Sure 'tis some gentle spirit of the air!
(During the duet, the moon has ~been gradually rising,
and the light, falls through the grated windows of the
Prison?)
(Enter Jailor, from the Tower, to Count LANISKA.)
JAILOR.
.. Count Laniska a friend, with an order from the king.
COUNT.
I attend him. [Exit Count LANISKA.
(Jailor closes the iron door over the grated window, locks
it, and retires)
SCENE I] OR, WHO'S THE T R A I T R ? 319
somiA.
'Twas but a dream ! 'Tis past, and all is still again !
[The bell in the Tower strikes twelve.
BRAVURA SOPHIA.
Hark! 'tis the deep-toned midnight bell,
That bids a sad and long farewell
To the departed hour ;
How like a dirge its music falls
Within these cold and dreary walls,
Where stern misfortunes lower !
Ah ! vainly through these prison-bars
Glide the pale beams of moon and stars,
To cheer this lonely tower ;
From evening's close to dawn of day,
Hope's star sheds not a single ray
To light the solemn hour !
Alas ! what pangs must guilt conceal,
Wlien innocence like mine can feel
So crushed in such an hour !
I know not whether love be crime
But if it is, in every clime
'T is woman's fatal dower !
I can find no clew to this most cruel treachery. "Wltat
fiend in human shape has plotted my destruction ? (Sound
of chains prison-door is unlocked?) Ah ! Karl here I
320 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [ACT IIL
(Enter KARL, who secures the door through which he
came in. He takes a position on the 'opposite side of
the stage, and regards SOPHIA attentively.)
KARL.
Well, Sophia, we meet at last where we can confer
without the possibility of interruption. I came to save
you.
SOPHIA.
My life would not be worth preserving, owing any-
thing to you.
KARL.
Subdue this unavailing anger, and listen to your friend.
SOPHIA.
Not to you. The enmity of such a man is a tribute
paid to honesty. Friend ! (scornfully.}
KARL.
I came to give you liberty.
SOPHIA.
How?
KARL.
By flight.
SOPHIA.
Where ?
KARL.
To Saxony.
SOPHIA.
With whom ?
SCENE I.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 321
KARL.
The only one who loves you.
SOPHIA.
Name him.
KAHL.
Behold him at your feet !
SOPHIA.
What mockery is this ? Mark me, Karl : I am a weak,
friendless, unprotected girl. If your sex is strong, mine
is resolute. Abandon your present designs give up
this useless suit, and cease to persecute the innocent.
KAEL.
I have heard you ! Now listen to me. You are my
destiny.
SOPHIA.
Wretch !
KAKL.
I cannot and I will not live without you. To secure,
if not your love, at least the possession of your person, I
have perilled everything. You are mine by right, and I
will have my own !
SOPHIA.
Yours by right!
KAEL.
Yes!
SOPHIA.
What right?
322 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr IIL
KAEL.
I
The king gave you to me.
SOPHIA.
I was not his to give.
KAEL.
Ton were his bondwoman.
SOPHIA.
And liis bondwoman spurned you, as she ought !
KAEL.
With scorn you did! I have not forgotten it!
SOPHIA.
And does so now again.
KAEL.
You love another !
SOPHIA.
I'll not deny it.
KAEL.
Torture ! (Draws his dagger?)
SOPHIA (greatly terrified.)
Karl, you would not stain this prison-floor with blood !
KAEL.
I would, to strike my rival's heart through yours!
But words may make the blow unnecessary. (Puts up
his dagger.) Hear me, Sophia. Till I saw you, I never
felt the pangs of love ! I never shed a tear ! From man-
hood's early dawn, my savage nature could not brook
SCENE I] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 323
reproof ; nor friend nor foe had power over me. Your
smile alone subdued this callous heart. Sophia, save
me! Save a repentant, wretched man!
SONG KARL.
(German air.)
Once, mild and gentle was my heart !
My youth from guile was free !
But when love's bonds were torn apart,
What joy had life for me?
No words, no threats could daunt my soul,
My reckless spirit spurned control
Till swayed by smiles from thee !
A wanderer o'er the desert sand,
An outcast on the sea,
An exile from my native land
"What's all the world to me?
Each friend misfortune proved a foe :
I scorned the high despised the low
Till swayed by smiles from thee !
(At the conclusion of the song, enter, by the secret door,
HAROLD with a carbine, conducting in ALBEET and
WEDGEWOOD stealthily)
HAROLD (aside)
1 knew that I was right.
32-1 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr IIL
ALBERT (aside.}
Silence on your lives !
WEDGEWOOD (aside.)
If it is convenient ! [They conceal themselves.
SOPHIA.
It is in vain !
KAKL.
Then you must away with me this very night, this
very hour, or perish here ! (KAKL advances and takes
her ly the wrist. ALBERT keeps WEDGEWOOD and HAKOLD
'/)
SOPHIA.
Villain, forbear ! Oh, help me, Heaven !
KAKL (drawing his dagger)
You call in vain ! Your doom is sealed ! Die ! (As
he is about to stab SOPHIA, WEDGEWOOD seizes his arm.)
WEDGEWOOD.
You lie, you infernal scoundrel !
KARL.
Ha! betrayed! Have at you, then! (A struggle en-
sues between KAKL and WEDGEWOOD, in which the former
is overcome and thrown upon the ground. SOPHIA rushes
into ALBERT'S arms in great agitation. HAROLD advances
to the centre of the stage, and aims his carbine at KARL.
At the same moment, WEDGEWOOD, who has had a desper-
ate struggle with KARL, exclaims )
SCENE II.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 325
WEDGEWOOD.
Your dagger! your dagger! (Wrests it from Mm.)
Now yield, or die ! (Rises, places his foot upon KAKL,
and holds the dagger up] If it is convenient!
(Tableau. Scene closes.}
{Exit.
SCENE II.
Another cell in the Castle of Spandau. Enter Count
LANISKA and Jailor.
JAILOK.
Count Laniska, you bear the king's commission, al-
though a prisoner ; therefore, while I leave you to exam-
ine these papers (hands papers,) received from Mr. Wor-
rendorf, I rely upon your honour not to attempt to escape.
COUNT.
Your confidence is not misplaced, believe me. [Exit
Jailor.] (Looks at papers.} My friend is unwearied in
my cause. But I am a soldier, and have ever held my
life at the disposal of the king. If Sophia were free and
happy, I could look upon death with an undaunted spirit.
(Puts up papers) How like an angel she appeared when
last I gazed upon her heavenly face now glistening
with the tear, now radiant with the smile of beauty 1
326 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr IIL
SONG LANISKA.
The gentle bird on yonder spray,
That sings its little life away ;
The rose-bud bursting into flower,
And glittering in the sun and shower ;
The cherry-blossom on the tree
Are emblematic all of thee.
Yon moon that sways the vassal streams,
Like thee in modest beauty beams ;
So shines the diamond of the mine,
And the rock-crystal of the brine :
The gems of heaven, the earth and sea,
Are blended, all, dear maid, in thee !
[Exit.
SCENE III.
An Apartment in the Gallery of Paintings at Sans Souci.
Enter ALBERT and WEDGEWOOD in haste, meeting the
Countess LANISKA.
ALBERT.
Have you seen the king ?
COUNTESS.
His Majesty has not yet appeared.
SCKNE III.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 327
WEDGEWOOD.
A crate of mouldy straw for your warlike government !
(Snaps his fingers?) That for your soldierlike system of
doing business! I wouldn't give a broken basin for it!
"Why, the commanding officer has only to say, " Hang
me up that tall fellow, like a scarecrow," and up he goes
tzck ! or, "Give me that short chap the cat-o'-nine-
tails," and, whack, he has it or, "Shoot me yonder
half-dozen specimens of humanity," and, bang, 'tis done!
(Enter FREDERICK, followed by HAROLD, unperceived, at
the back of the stage.}
ALBERT.
If the king would but listen to reason
WEDGEWOOD.
Ay, but he won't! I never saw such a resolute old
curmudgeon; and then he's so proud, too! He's like a
hard-baked stone jar he won't bend anyhow. I know
why he gave me his snuff-box: it was because I hap-
pened to help myself to a pinch out of the dirty old
trumpery ! If he, or you, or all of you, by any chance
happened to live in England, or any other civilized coun-
try, this poor count and the girl too would have an im-
partial hearing before they were condemned.
COUNTESS.
But under this government we have blessings unknown
to yours
328 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr III.
WEDGEWOOD.
But me no buts, madam ! Give me the blessings of
living under a government where no man can be con-
demned without a fair trial by jury, madam. To you
Prussians, this is a matter of favour ; but to us English-
men, it is a matter of right !
COUNTESS.
Would to Heaven that my son and this poor girl could
have such a trial !
ALBERT.
And would to Heaven I might plead their cause!
(The King, who has paid great attention to their conver-
sation, walks down the stage, and suddenly stands in
the midst of them. They all start, and fall back.)
KING.
On one condition you shall
OMNES.
The king !
KING.
On one condition, young man, your prayer shall be
granted.
ALBERT.
Name it, sire
KING.
If you fail to convince the judges of their innocence,
that you shall share their punishment. Do you agree ?
ALBERT.
I do, and set my life upon the issue.
SCENE III.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 329
KING.
Your life shall answer for it if yon fail. (To HAPWOLD.)
Give orders that the hall of the castle be immediately
prepared for the trial. Use despatch, Harold ! [Exit
HAROLD.] (To the Countess.) You, madam, I believe to
be wholly ignorant of your son's treachery.
COUNTESS.
If he be guilty
KING (sarcastically.)
If he be guilty, madam ?
COUNTESS.
Yes, sire; if he has forgotten what Your Majesty has
done for Poland, he is no son of mine !
KING.
I shall spare you all the reflections I have made on the
subject, madam. Tyrant as I am, I shall not punish the
innocent mother for the guilty son. But perhaps this
gentleman [ALBERT,] and your [WEDGEWOOD] recommend-
ed trial
WEDGEWOOD.
Trial by jury! Your Majesty has said it! There's
freedom in the very words !
KING.
How is it to be managed ?
WEDGEWOOD.
Managed, Your Majesty? Why, according to law and
justice.
330 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr III
KING.
Good!
WEDGEWOOD.
Twelve honest, upright, free and independent men are
empanelled to hear the case
KING.
Good again !
WEDGEWOOD.
All the witnesses are examined, and all the testimony
fairly summed up by learned counsel
KING.
Excellent !
WEDGEWOOD.
Then the grave expounders of the law the judges -
charge the jury, who, upon their oaths, return a ver-
dict
KING.
A glorious institution !
WEDGEWOOD.
The shield and protection of the rights of man the
bulwark of civil and religious liberty and the admira-
tion of the whole civilized world ! Democratically odd !
KING.
Well well well so justice be done, I care not for
the means.
SCEXE III.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 331
WEDGEWOOD. '
By jingo, he 's genuine porcelain ! It's all right fair,
square and above-board a clear field and no favour!
(Enter HAROLD.)
HAROLD.
Everything is in preparation. The judges are pro-
ceeding to their seats ; the jury will soon be sworn, and
the prisoners arraigned at the bar
WEDGEWOOD (to HAROLD.)
Who 's the crier of the court ?
HAROLD.
That office is not yet filled. [Exit.
WEDGEWOOD.
That won't do ! Illegally odd !
KING.
Perhaps, M" r. TVedgewood, you would like the appoint-
ment yourself?
WEDGEWOOD.
If it is convenient.
KING.
I confer it upon you.
WEDGEWOOD.
Thank Your Majesty. By Jove, we're sailing with
wind and tide a smooth sea below and a clear sky
above us 1
332 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr IIL
KING.
Well, gentlemen, I wish you a prosperous voyage ; but
take care that you do not run your vessel upon the rocks
of litigation, and founder among the quicksands of the
law.
WEDGEWOOD.
No danger, Your Majesty, with such a pilot [ALBERT.]
(Sudden and loud shouts and confused noise without.
Drums leat to arms) "What is the meaning of all this
commotion ?
(Enter HAKOLD, in haste)
KING.
Out with it, Harold !
HAROLD.
The rumour of the treachery and ingratitude of the
prisoners has spread like wildfire throughout the city
KING.
Well!
HAROLD.
The populace are in a ferment at the indignity offered
to our beloved monarch, and demand the instant execu-
tion of the prisoners.
KING.
Well, well ; say on.
HAROLD.
The multitude crowd every avenue to the palace, and
SCENE III.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 333
the chateau of the countess ; and the royal guards are
under arms to preserve the public peace.
KING.
So, so, so, so
COUNTESS.
O Heaven! what will become of us?
KING (proudly.}
Have you not the king's protection? I will appear
among my children, who are so apprehensive about my
safety, that they sometimes forget themselves, and be-
come a little unruly. They will be satisfied when they
hear and see their father. (Seeing the Countess look de-
jected^) Do not droop, madam; your guilty son shall
have a fair and impartial trial. (Taking her hand. To
ALBERT sternly.} Look to it, sir; for if you fail, you
know what follows! (Exit FREDERICK and Countess.
Immense cheering and beating of drums without}
WEDGEWOOD.
Bravo ! He's a trump. Bless me ! a popular commo-
tion! No matter I am crier of the court! Let me
catch any of the little boys making a noise in the halls
of justice that's all ! I'll make the king himself mind
his P's and Q's, if he dare to interfere with our grave
deliberations! I will act as becomes my station. His
334: THE MAID OF SAXONY: [ACT IIL
Majesty has a jewel in me, and I'll convince him that
authority in my hands is a knock-down argument so-
fist-ically odd !
SONG WEDGEWOOD.
That law's the perfection of reason,
No one in his senses denies ;
Yet here is a trial for treason
Will puzzle the wigs of the wise.
The lawyers who bring on the action
On no single point will agree,
Though proved to their own satisfaction
That tweedle-dum's not tweedle-dee !
To settle disputes, in a fury
The sword from the scabbard we draw ;
But reason appeals to a jury,
And settles according to law.
Then hey for the woolsack ! for never
Without it can nations be free ;
But trial by jury for ever!
And for tyranny fiddle-de-dee !
[Exit.
SCENE TV.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 335
SCENE THE LAST.
Discovered. The whole stage is thrown open, and repre-
sents the Hall of the Palace at Potsdam, arranged as a
court-room. On a carpeted platform is the royal seat
of state^ occupied by three Judges. On the right and
left of them are cushioned seats for the King and his
retinue, and Officers of state. In front of the judg-
ment-seat is a large centre-table, on which are various
law-books and the Prussian Yase. Around the table
are suitable places for the Advocates in the cause. On
each side are elevated benches, occupied by the Girls
of the Factory, behind whom are stationed platoons
of the Royal Guards. At the end of the benches on
the right is the jury-box, with twelve Jurors, and the
desk of the Crier, on which is a small mallet. Around
the whole stage is a large gallery, crowded with the
Citizens of Potsdam. The entire scene is intended to
represent an English Criminal Court of Law of the
olden time, in full costume, with scarlet robes, ermine
gowns, (&c. The following Characters are discovered
in their respective places : Baron ALTENBERG, the At-
torney-General and Advocate for the Crown; the
Workmen of the Factory, as Witnesses; the Jailor,
HANS, GERTRUDE, HAKOLD and Corporal ; Count LANIS-
336 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr III.
KA, guarded, attended "by the Countess and FKEDEEICA ;
SOPHIA MANSFIELD, guarded, and attended ly Factory-
Girls ; ALBERT, as Advocate for the Prisoners, and
WEDGEWOOD, as Crier of the Court ; Officers of state,
Ladies of the Court, Porters of the Hall, and the King.
This scene is accompanied by the Orchestra. Mu-
sic as the scene opens
CHORUS.
"With mercy let justice
To mortals be given,
For Justice and Mercy
Are twin-born of heaven !
(As Baron ALTENBERG rises, WEDGEWOOD says, in a sub-
dued tone of voice, and very respectfully]
"WEDGEWOOD.
Silence in the court !
ALTENBERG.
May it please your lordships, these facts are not de-
nied: the inscription in the handwriting of the count;
his free access to the factory; his frequent use of the
word tyrant when speaking of the king ; his earnest in-
terest in the Saxon maid ; her love for the count, and
her opposition to the will of our most gracious sovereign
for allotting her to the overseer as his bride : and they
all unite in establishing their crime, the punishment of
SCENE IV.] OK, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 337
which is death. Had not His Majesty chanced to wipe
off, with his own handkerchief, the blue paint which con-
cealed the word tyrant, the vase would have been sent
to Paris, the king and people disgraced, and the crimi-
nals safe in Saxony. Yes, gentlemen (to the Jury,) this
splendid ornament, which is to be known to all future
ages as " The Prussian Vase," is defaced with the trea-
sonable inscription "To Frederick the Great Tyrant.-'
KDTG (rising in excitement, and forgetting himself.)
Yes, soldiers and subjects, friends and children, this
word is applied to me to your father by these base
ingrates here !
CHORUS.
Shame, shame, shame !
Long live the king ! &c.
WEDGEWOOD (in a commanding tone, and striking the desk
with his mallet.)
Silence in the court, or I'll put you in the stocks, juve-
nile delinquents and all ! "What an odd people !
KING.
I beg the indulgence of your lordships for my infirmi-
ties of temper. Let the cause proceed. (Takes his seat.)
JUDGE.
The case for the crown, gentlemen, is fully before you,
and is submitted in the confidence that you will dis-
charge your duty faithfully.
338 THE MAID OF S A X X Y : [Acr IIL
KING (again forgetting himself.}
Ay, discharge your duty faithfully !
WEDGEWOOD (witJi great authority rapping on the desk.)
Silence in the court, Your Majesty !
JUDGE.
Let the counsel for the prisoners now proceed.
ALBERT.
Place Karl in the witness-box.
(Enter KARL and HAROLD.)
SOLO AND CHOKUS.
KARL.
What outrage more ? At whose command
Am I thus shackled and restrained?
"What mockery 's this ? In this free land
The subject's rights should be maintained.
CHOKUS.
The traitor braves the king's command !
KARL.
Those whom the lion would ensnare,
Should of his reckless fangs beware I
The forest-monarch, held at bay,
"Will turn and spring upon his prey !
CHORUS.
Thus bold will guilt full oft appear !
The sword of Justice let him fear I
SCENE IV.] OR, WHO'S T II E T II A I T li ? 339
WEDGEWOOD (as KARL i<s placed in tJie witness-fiox.}
Silence in the court!
CHOKUS.
"With mercy let justice
To mortals be given ;
For Mercy and Justice
Are twin-born of heaven.
KAKL.
"Why am I summoned here against my will ?
ALBERT.
You are here to answer, not to question, sirrah !
KARL.
By what authority do you command my answers ? In
these realms the king alone commands.
KING (again forgetting himself!)
That's true that's very true the king alone com-
mands
WEDGEWOOD (shaking his mallet at the King.)
"What, Your Majesty you will will you?
KING.
Oh, I have forgotten myself again ! (Takes his seat?)
Confound the fellow !
KARL (aside.}
The king here? Then I have one friend at least on
34:0 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr III.
whom I may rely. (To King.) Shall I may I speak
freely ?
KING.
The king has no authority now. (Pointing to the jury-
box.} There are the sovereigns of the people, and to them
you must appeal. (Aside} "What a situation for a mon-
arch !
ALBERT (to KARL.)
You know yon Saxon maid and the Count Laniska?
KARL.
I do, and hate the count.
ALBERT.
Wherefore ?
KARL.
He has thwarted my designs! No, no, I mean not
that ! I mean that I hate him because he plotted treason
against the king, and wrote " Tyrant" upon the vase.
ALBERT.
Did he write it ?
KARL.
He did these eyes beheld him.
COUNT (aside}
The perjured caitiff!
SOPHIA.
O Heaven, have mercy upon us !
COUNTESS.
They are lost !
SCENE IT.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 34:1
(Countess leans on FREDERICA. The King Reckons to HAR-
OLD, who goes to him. They engage in earnest conver-
sation, occasionally pointing to KARL. HAROLD is sup-
posed to be informing him of the arrest of KARL in
SOPHIA'S cell. KARL leaves the witness-box, and is about
to retire / but is stopped by HAROLD.)
ALBERT.
Call the German innkeeper to the stand.
[HANS is placed in the box.
KARL (aside.)
I tremble with apprehension !
ALBERT (tO HANS.)
You deal in colours do you not?
HANS.
Yaw, Mynheer.
ALBERT.
Have you sold any in Berlin lately ?
HANS.
Yaw, Mynheer ; I sold some of der Prussian blue to
der Hungarian overseer of der factory, who gave me
monish to say netting about it. He tried der quality
upon dis little scrap of baper, vich he forgot, and vich I
kept, mit der intention of giving him back ven I saw him
again. It is scrawled all over mit der word " Tyrant"
KARL (forgetting himself.)
That paper's mine give it me !
34:2 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr III.
WEDGEWOOD (instantly snatching the paper and holding
it up, exclaims in a loud tone)
It 's not convenient ! (Hands the paper to ALBERT, w ho
reads it to the Judges.)
ALBERT.
An attempt to imitate the handwriting of the count.
Compare it with the word upon the vase.
JUDGE.
It is the same !
CHORUS.
Huzza ! huzza ! &c.
WEDGEWOOD (forgetting himself ', after the chorus has fin-
ished, shouts out at the top of his voice,) Huzza!
(which the King observing, rises to call him to order ;
when WEDGEWOOD, noticing the King, places his hand
upon his own mouth / and looking round, and holding
his mallet in a threatening manner over KARL, who is
silent, ~by way of excusing his mistake, says) But si-
lence in the court ! (The King, shaking his finger at
"WEDGEWOOD, takes his seat ; HANS leaves the box.)
ALBERT.
Place that workman on the stand. (It is done.) Did
you ever see this vase before ?
WORKMAN.
Yes, sir.
BCEXE IV.] R , W II ' S THE T II A I T R ? 343
ALBERT.
Where ?
WORKMAN.
I saw Karl receive it for the furnace, and I saw him
marking upon it with a sharp instrument, which he sud-
denly hid in his bosom. (KARL feels for his dagger, and
half draws it, looking at SOPHIA ferociously. SOPHIA
observes him narrowly, and with great apprehension^)
ALBERT.
Who took the vase from the furnace ?
WORKMAN".
Karl.
ALBERT.
Who had possession of it afterward ?
WORKMAN.
Karl.
ALBERT.
Who pointed out the word "Tyrant" to the king at
the fete of the countess ?
KING (rising with great emotion^ and entirely forgetting
himself.)
Karl!
ALBERT.
Who has misled, blinded and deceived the king?
KING (with great emotion)
Traitorous, fiendlike Karl !
34A: THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr IIL
KAKL (aloud.}
I am stunned with horror !
KING (leaving Ms seat, and coming down in great haste
WEDGEWOOD raises his hammer.}
By your leave, Mr. "Wedgewood.
CHOKUS (as the KING descends.}
Long live the king ! &c.
(The King takes his station in the centre of the stage, and
lifts his hat.)
KING.
If the court please
WEDGEWOOD (aside.)
Bravo ! His Majesty is becoming a principal witness.
(In a subdued tone of voice.) Silence in the court! The
king speaks !
KING (rapidly.)
I see it all ! The case is clear. Karl had my permis-
sion to espouse Sophia. She refused him. Laniska loved
her. Karl hated him, and planned her destruction ; vis-
ited her in prison; tried to force her to fly the coun-
try with him; she refused, and he would have slain
her, had not Mr. Wedgewood, the Advocate and Harold
who has just told me all struck him to the ground.
Karl plotted this mischief Karl bought the paint
Karl wrote the word and Karl shall DDS!
SCENE IV. ] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 3-i5
KARL (draws his dagger.}
But not unavenged ! (He darts toward SOPHIA, and
makes an attempt to stab her. SOPHIA shrieks and runs
to LAXISEA. All the Characters rise, greatly excited, and
watch the scene with deep interest. The Guards present
their pikes to the breast of KARL, who is seized l>y HAR-
OLD and Corporal in the brief struggle with whom,
KARL'S shirt-sleeve is torn open, and the felon's brand
is discovered on his arm. To this ALBERT points in tri-
umph. Tableau. The whole action is instantaneous.
HAROLD (with great eagerness)
Behold, my liege, the felon's brand ! (Presto all start
with astonishment.)
CHORUS.
Now, who's the traitor?
[The Jurymen rise.
QUINTETTE AXD CHORUS.
KARL.
The javelin from an unseen hand
"Was sent that laid me low !
Behold exposed the felon's brand
Unto my mortal foe !
CHORUS.
Who 's now the traitor ? &c.
346 THE MAID OF SAXONY: [Acr IIL
JUDGE (promptly.}
What say the jury?
FOREMAN (promptly.}
The prisoners are innocent! (Presto all start with
joy-}
CHORUS.
The prisoners are innocent ! &c.
(Some of the Characters clasp their hands others em-
firace. SOPHIA and LANISKA turn to ALBERT, and the
Countess and FREDERICA to the King, in gratitude.)
KARL.
Oh, rage and fury ! (KARL is secured by TTAKOLD and
Corporal.)
CHORUS.
Rejoice ! our loyal hearts we bring
As free-will offerings to the king !
SOLO SOPHIA TO KING.
Oh, let me to thy ermine cling
In gratitude (kneels.) God bless the king 1
CHORUS.
God save the king !
Long live the king ! &c.
(The Workmen and Girls of the Factory, Advocates,
Officers, Soldiers, Ladies and Gentlemen, Spectators,
and all the Characters on the stage, indicate ly appro-
SCENE IV.] OR, WHO'S THE TRAITOR? 347
priate and spontaneous action the deep and intense
interest they take in the verdict. KARL gasps and
faints, and is supported l>y HAROLD and Corporal.
WEDGEWOOD notices the tableau with great self -compla-
cency. [The whole action is simultaneous.'] KARL
is home off l>y HAROLD and Corporal. All the Char-
acters then turn, and by looks and actions congratulate
each other, and the scene instantly becomes one of gen-
eral joy.}
KING.
This court is now dissolved. (The principal Charac-
ters leave their stations / and all the Parties, except the
Judges and those in the gallery, come upon the stage.
To the Judges.) Your lordships must pardon all irregu-
larities. This is the first trial by Jury that ever took
place in Prussia. Hereafter, no human power shall in-
terrupt your grave deliberations. (To Count LANISKA.)
Count Laniska, I took your sword from you this morn-
ing : I here present you mine. (Count kneels and re-
ceives it}
COUNT.
This, with my life, I dedicate to Your Majesty's ser-
vice!
KING (tO ALBERT.)
As for you, sir, the sword is not your weapon. (HAK-
OLD advances with a golden pen upon a velvet cushion.
318 THE MAID OF SAXOXT: [Acr III
ALBERT kneels.) Receive this emblem of far greater
power than all the implements of war, and wield it for
the benefit of mankind. Rise, Baron
ALBERT.
Mansfield, Yonr Majesty
KING (with surprise!)
Mansfield ?
SOPHIA.
My heart was not deceived ! My long-lost brother !
ALBERT (ALBERT and SOPHIA rush into each other's arms.}
My dear, dear sister !
KING (Booking at them.)
So, so, so ! Oh, what an old fool I have been ! (Look-
ing around.) Come hither, Sophia. (She advances ; the
King takes her hand!) I owe you some amends for your
long and patient suffering on my account (taking the
Count's hand) and thus I make them. (SOPHIA and
LANISKA join hands joyfully!) How well the criminals
understand each other ! (Rubbing his hands, and walk-
inff joyfully about the stage.) Ah, Mr. "Wedge wood, I
don't care if I take a pinch of snuff out of that same box
I gave you the other day.
WEDGEWOOD (presenting fiox.)
Your Majesty has added to its value a diamond worth
all the rest, in finding it is large enough for two of us.
SCENE IV.] II, WHO'S Til K T II A I T R ? 349
KIKG.
Good! (Notices FKEDEKICA.) What! Frederica, my
fair namesake and little god-daughter in the dumps?
(Looking at ALBERT.) Oh, I understand. (To Countess.)
By your leave, madam. (Hands FREDERICA to ALBERT.)
You perceive, Mr. Wedgewood, that I have a large fam-
ily to look after and provide for; but I am a happy
father, sir mine are good children, very good children!
I wish I had more like these.
WEDGEWOOD (significantly.}
If Your Majesty goes on in this way, there'll be plenty
more in time.
KING.
All are now satisfied at least I hope all are so here.
(To the audience} If, as a king, I may, on another occa-
sion, command an audience
WEDGEWOOD (forgetting himself, lifting his mallet and
flourishing it like an auctioneer] Going ! (Recollect-
ing himself.) I mean (slowly and with gravity)
s-i-1-e-n-c-e i-n t-h-e c-o-u-r-t! (meaning the
audience)
KING.
These witnesses will, I am sure, attend the next trial
of the MAID OF SAXONY
WEDGEWOOD.
If it is convenient !
350 THE MAID OF SAXONY. [Acr 111.
FINALE.
Our hearts are bounding with delight !
"I is Freedom's jubilee!
For right has triumphed over might
The bond again are free !
Hurrah ! hurrah !
Let the welkin ring !
To Justice and Liberty-
Paeans we sing !
(Tableau. Curtain falls.)
*
END OF THE MAID OF SAXONY.
NOTE S.
NOTES,
Page 17.
THE DESERTED BRIDE.
THIS poem was written after seeing Miss FANNY KEMBLB,
for the first time, in one scene of " The Hunchback."
Page 25.
THE CROTON ODE.
WRITTEN at the request of the Corporation of the city of
New- York, and sung near the Park Fountain, by the members
of the New-York Sacred Music Society, on the completion of
the Croton Aqueduct, October 14, 1842.
Page 35.
WOODMAN, SPARE THAT TREE !
RIDING out of town a few days since, in company with a
friend, who was once the expectant heir of the largest estate in
America, but over whose worldly prospects a blight has recently
354 NOTES.
come, he invited me to turn down a little romantic woodland pass
not far from Bloomingdale. " Your object ?" inquired I. " Merely
to look once more at an old tree planted by my grandfather, near
a cottage that was once my father's." "The place is yours,
then ?" said I. " No, my poor mother sold it ;" and I observed a
slight quiver of the lip, at the recollection of that circumstance.
" Dear mother !" resumed my companion, " we passed many
happy, happy days, in that old cottage ; but it is nothing to me
now father, mother, sisters, cottage all are gone!" and a
paleness overspread his fine countenance, and a moisture came
to his eyes, as he spoke. After a moment's pause, he added :
" Don't think me foolish. I don't know how it is, I never ride
out but I turn down this lane to look at that old tree. I have a
thousand recollections about it, and I always greet it as a famil-
iar and well-remembered friend. In the by-gone summer-time
it was a friend indeed. Under its branches I often listened to
the good counsel of my parents, and had such gambols with my
sisters ! Its leaves are all off now, so you won't see it to advan-
tage, for it is a glorious old fellow in summer ; but I like it full
as well in winter-time." These words were scarcely uttered,
when my companion cried out, " There it is !" Near the tree
stood an old man, with his coat off, sharpening an axe. He was
the occupant of the cottage. " What do you intend doing ?"
asked my friend with great anxiety. " What is that to you ?" was
the blunt reply. " You are not going to cut that tree down, sure-
ly ?" "Yes, but I am though," said the woodman. "What
for ?" inquired my companion, almost choked with emotion.
" What for ? Why, because I think proper to do so. What for 1
I like that! Well, I'll tell you what for. This tree makes my
dwelling unhealthy ; it stands too near the house ; prevents the
NOTES. 355
moisture from exhaling, and renders us liable to fever-ancl-ague."
"Who told you that?" "Dr. S ***." "Have you any
other reason for wishing to cut it down ?" " Yes, I am getting
old ; the woods are a great way off, and this tree is of some
value to me to burn." He was soon convinced, however, that
the story about the fever-and-ague was a mere fiction, for there
never had been a case of that disease in the neighbourhood ;
and then was asked what the tree was worth for firewood.
" Why, when it is down, about ten dollars." " Suppose 1 make
you a present of that amount, will you let it stand ?" " Yes."
" You are sure of that ?" ;t Positive." " Then give me a bond
to that effect." I drew it up ; it was witnessed by his daughter ;
the money was paid, and we left the place with an assurance
from the young girl, who looked as smiling and beautiful as a
Hebe, that the tree should stand as long as she lived. We re-
turned to the road, and pursued our ride. These circumstances
made a strong impression upon my mind, and furnished me with
materials for the song I herewith send you.
EXTRACT FROM A LETTER TO HEJ. T BY RUSSELL, THE VOCALIST, DATED NEW YORK, FES-
BUARV 1, 1837.
Page 55.
THE CHIEFTAIN'S DAUGHTER.
" EVERV part of the brief but glorious life of POCAHONTAS is
calculated to produce a thrill of admiration, and to reflect the
highest honour on her name. Th most memorable event of
her life is thus recorded: After a long consultation among the
Indians, the fate of Captain SMITH, who was the leader of the
first colony in Virginia, was decided. The conclave resumed
their silent gravity. Two huge stones were placed near the
356 NOTES.
water's edge ; Smith was lashed to them, and his head was laid
down, as a preparation for beating out his brains with war-clubs.
Powhattan raised the fatal instrument, and the savage multitude
with their blood-stained weapons stood near their king, silently
waiting the prisoner's last moment. But Smith was not des-
tined thus to perish. Pocahontas, the beloved daughter of the
king, rushed forward, fell upon her knees, and, with tears and
entreaties, prayed that the victim might be spared. The royal
savage rejected her suit, and commanded her to leave Smith to
his fate. Grown frantic at the failure of her supplications, Po-
cahontas threw her arms about Smith, and laid her head upon
his, her raven hair falling around his neck and shoulders, de-
claring she would perish with or save him. The Indians gasped
for breath, fearing that Powhattan would slay his child for taking
such a deep interest in the fate of one he considered his dead-
liest foe. But human nature is the same everywhere : the war-
club dropped from the monarch's hand his brow relaxed
his heart softened ; and, as he raised his brave daughter to his
bosom, and kissed her forehead, he reversed his decree, and
directed Smith to be set at liberty ! Whether the regard of this
glorious girl for Smith ever reached the feeling of love, is not
known. No favour was ever expected in return. ' I ask noth-
ing of Captain Smith,' said she, in an interview she afterward
had with him in England, ' in recompense for what I have done,
but the boon of living in his memory.' John Randolph was a
lineal descendant of this noble woman, and was wont to pride
himself upon the honour of his descent. Pocahontas died in
the twenty-second year of her age." SKETCHES OF. VIRGINIA
NOTES. 357
Page 61.
SONG OF MARION'S MEN.
" SALLIE ST. CLAIR was a beautiful, dark-eyed Creole girl.
The whole treasury of her love was lavished upon Sergeant
JASPER, who, on one occasion, had the good fortune to save her
life. The prospect of their separation almost maddened her.
To sever her long, jetty ringlets from her exquisite head to
dress in male attire to enroll herself in the corps to which he
belonged, and follow his fortunes in the wars, unknown to him
was a resolution no sooner conceived than taken. In the
camp she attracted no particular attention, except on the night
before the battle, when she was noticed bending over his couch,
like a good and gentle spirit, as if listening to his dreams. The
camp was surprised, and a fierce conflict ensued. The lovers
were side by side in the thickest of the fight ; but, endeavouring
to turn away a lance aimed at the heart of Jasper, the poor girl
received it in her own, and fell bleeding at his feet ! After the
victory, her name and sex were discovered, and there was not a
dry eye in the corps when Sallie St. Clair was laid in her grave,
near the river Santee, in a green, shady nook, that looked as if
it had been stolen out of Paradise." TALES OF MABION'S MEN.
Page 63.
JANET MCREA.
" WE seated ourselves in the shade of a large pine-tree, and
drank of a spring that gurgled beneath it. The Indians gave a
groan, and turned their faces from the water. They would not
358 NOTES.
drink of the spring, nor eat in the shade of the tree ; but retired
to a ledge of rocks at no great distance. I ventured to approach
them and inquire the cause of their strange conduct. One of
the Indians said, in a deep and solemn tone : ' That place is bad
for the red-man ; the blood of an innocent woman, not of our
enemies, rests upon that spot ! She was there murdered. The
red-man's word had been pledged for her safety ; but the evil
spirit made him forget it. She lies buried there. No one
avenged her murder, and the Great Spirit was angry. That
water will make us more thirsty, and that shade will scorch us.
The stain of blood is on our hands, and we know not how to
wipe it out. It still rests upon us, do what we will.' I could
get no more from them ; they were silent, even for Indians. It
was the death of Miss McREA they alluded to. She was be-
trothed to a young American by the name of Jones, who had
taken sides with the British, and become a captain in their ser-
vice. The lovers, however, had managed to keep up a corre-
spondence ; and he was informed, after a battle in which he
distinguished himself for his bravery, that his inamorata was
concealed in a house a few miles from Sandy-Hill. As it was
dangerous for him to go to her, he engaged a party of confiden-
tial Indians to take his horse to her residence and bring her to
his tent in safety. He urged her, in his letter, not to hesitate
a moment in putting herself under their protection ; and the
voice of a lover is law to a confiding woman. They proceeded
on their journey, and stopped to rest under a large pine-tree
near a spring the one at which we drank. Here they were
met by another party of Indians, also sent by the impatient lover,
when a quarrel arose about her which terminated in her assas-
sination. One of the Indians pulled the poor girl from her
NOTES. 359
horse ; and another struck his tomahawk into her forehead, tore
off her scalp, and gashed her breast ! They then covered her
body with leaves, and left her under the huge pine-tree. One
of the Indians made her lover acquainted with the facts, and
another brought him her scalp. He knew the long brown tres-
ses of Miss McRea, and, in defiance of all danger, flew to the
spot to realize the horrid scene. He tore away the thinly-
spread leaves clasped the still-bleeding body in his arms, and,
wrapping it in his cloak, was about bearing it away, when he
was prevented by his superior officers, who ordered the poor
girl to be buried on the spot where she had been immolated.
After this event a curse seemed to rest upon the red-man. In
every battle their forces were sadly cut up the Americans
attacking them most furiously whenever they could get an op-
portunity. The prophets of the Indians had strange auguries ;
they saw constantly in the clouds the form of the murdered
white woman, invoking the blasts to overwhelm them, and
directing all the power and fury of the Americans to extermi-
nate every red-man of the forest who had committed the hateful
deed of breaking his faith and staining the tomahawk with the
blood of a woman, whose spirit still called for revenge. It was
agreed among the Indians in a body to move silently away ; and
by morning's light not a red-man was to be found near the
British troops. Captain Jones, too, was no more. In the battle
he led on his men with that fearlessness and fury that distressed
minds often do ; but his men grew tired of following him in such
perilous attacks, and began to fly. As he returned to rally them
he received a ball in his back. Burning with shame, love and
frenzy, he turned and threw himself on the bayonets of the
enemy, and at once closed his agonies and expiated his political
360 NOTES.
offence. He was laid by the side of her he had so ardently
loved and deeply lamented." EVENTS OF THE REVOLUTION.
Page 70.
They 're gone with my last shilling.
" THIS is a fact, and no poetic fable." BYBOW.
Page 70.
Florence's Saloon.
A MUCH-FREQUENTED restaurant in Broadway.
Page 70.
Sunny- Side.
THE country residence of WASHINGTON IRTINO.
Page 71.
The luxury of wo.
W-H-O-A !
Page 72.
A wheel rigged for a tiller.
A PECDLIARITY of Commodore Christopher B. Miller's yacht,
" The Ultra."
NOTES. 361
Page 73.
Long live the valiant Mayor !
" IF you want me," said His Honour, at the Astor-Place riots,
on the evening of the 10th of May, 1849, "you will FINP ME
at the New-York Hotel .'"
Page 133.
THE PRAIRIE ON FIRE.
THIS ballad is founded, in part, upon a thrilling story of the
West, related by Mr. COOPER, the novelist.
Page 155.
THE SWEEP'S CAROL.
WRITTEN to be sung in character, for the purpose of intro-
ducing the wild, peculiar and well-known cry or carol of the
sweeps of New-York.
Page 187.
THE FALLEN BRAVE OF MEXICO.
WRITTEN, at the request of the Corporation of the city of
New-York, for the funeral solemnities to Lieutenant-Colonel
BAXTER, Captains BARCLAY and PIERSON, and Lieutenants
CHANDLER and GALLAGHER, of the New-York Volunteers, who
died upon the battle-fields of Mexico. Sung by the members
of the New-York Sacred Music Society, on Wednesday, the
12th day of July, 1848, in front of the City Hall.
362 NOTES.
Page 191.
THE CHAMPIONS OF LIBERTY.
WRITTEN, at the request of the Common Council of the city
of New- York, for the funeral solemnities in honour of the gal-
lant and lamented Major-General WORTH, Colonel DUNCAN, and
Major GATES, late of the United States army. Sung by the
Sacred Music Society in the balcony in front of the City Hall,
Thursday, November 15, 1849.
Page 213.
THE SOLDIER'S WELCOME HOME.
SUNG at the New- York Tabernacle, on the evening of April
18, 1849, by Mr. NASH, with a chorus of a thousand voices.
Page 215.
THE ORIGIN OF YANKEE DOODLE.
THIS jeu cTesprit was written for and sung by the HUTCHIN-
SON FAMILY.
Page 221.
NEW-YORK IN 1826.
THIS address, which has a local interest, is republished at the
request of several of the author's friends one of whom "de-
sires to preserve it as one of the curiosities of rhyme ;" and
another " as a picture of New-York, and its belongings, a quar-
ter of a century ago."
NOTES. 363
Page 221.
STANZA I.
" S. W." are the initials of my much-lamented friend, the late
SAMUEL WOODWORTH, Esq.
SJie whispers of coaches,
And lockets and broaches
refers to the holiday-presents in vogue at the time.
Page 222.
STANZA II.
contains the name of an institution whose failure created great
consternation in Wall-street.
Page 222.
STANZA IV.
GAS-LIGHT was introduced into New-York about that period,
and the gas-burners were formed in the shapes here mentioned.
Page 223.
STANZA V.
Seats on the Battery.
AT the time alluded to there were none ; and there was in-
cessant warfare between the press and the lessees of Castle
Garden, w^liich was finally settled by the interposition of the
Common Council, who caused seats to be placed on the Battery
for the accommodation of the public.
NOTES.
Page 223.
STANZA VI.
THIS stanza contains the names of the fashionable poets and
editors of the day.
Page 223.
STANZA VII.
LAFAYETTE visited New-York during the administration of
Governor CLINTON. The stanza also alludes to the then-recent
completion of the Erie Canal, and to the troubles in Greece,
which occupied much of the public attention.
Page 224.
STANZA VIII.
THE Bowery Theatre was built in 1826.
Page 225.
STANZA X.
THE Garcia troupe were then performing at the Park Thea-
tre, and they were the first that produced Italian operas in this
country. The KEAN riot had recently occurred.
Page 225.
STANZA XI.
NAMES of the Museums and other shows, giants and Indians
being then their principal attractions.
X OTES.
Page 225.
STANZA XII.
DESCRIPTIVE of the manner in which the New Year was
ushered in.
Page 226.
STANZA XIII.
THE " NEW-YORK MIRROR" was one of the earliest periodi-
cals devoted to American letters.
Page 247.
THE MAID OF SAXONY.
THIS Opera was first performed at the Park Theatre, on the
25th of May, 1842, and ran fourteen successive nights. It was
entirely and completely successful, being nightly received with
cheers.
THE END.
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY
Los Angeles
This book is DUE on the last date stamped below.
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